






OR 

HIEROGLYPHIC MONITOR; 

CONTAINING 

ALL THE EMBLEMS EXPLAINED 

IN THE DEGREES OF 

ENTERED APPRENTICE, FELLOW CRAFT, MASTER 
MASON, MARK MASTER, PAST MASTER, 
MOST EXCELLENT MASTER, ROYAL 
ARCH, ROYAL MASTER, AND 
SELECT MASTER : 

SESIGNED AND DULY ARRANGED AGREEABLY TO THE 

LECTURES, 

BY R. W. JEREMY L. CROSS, G. L. 

TO WHICH ARE ADDED, 

Illustrations, Charges, Songs, &c. 

— 

FOURTH EDITION: 

With Additions and Emendations ; ar^d the Emblems newly 
designed and improved. 


Sold, wholesale and retail, by A. H. Maltby & Co. and H. Howe, 
New-Haven ; Johu Grigg, Philadelphia ; Collins & Co. 
and Collins &. Hannay, New-York; Richardson h 
Lord, and Harrison Gray, Boston 

PUBLISHED AND SOLD BY THE AUTHOR, 

NEW-HAVEN, CONN. 


ft. G. WOODWARD AND CO. PRINT. 






1826. 

j ■* 






12.0 


DISTRICT OP CONNECTICUT, to wit: 

B E it remembered, That on the fifth day of August jjy 
the fifty-first year of the Independence of the United 
States of America. A D. 1826, JUREMY L. CROSS, of 
the said District, hath deposited in this Qffice the Title of 
a Book, the right whereof he claims as author; in the words 
following— to wit: 

a The True Masonic Chart, or Hieroglyphic Monitor, containing all the 
Emblems explained in the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Ft How Craft. Mas- 
ter Mason, Mark Master, Fast Master, Most Excellent Master, Royal Arch, 
Royal Master, and Select Master ; designed and duly arranged agreeably to the 
Lectures by R. W. JEREMY L. CROSS, G. L. To which are added, Illu^ 
trations. Charges, Songs. Ike. Fourth Edition, with additions and emenda- 
tions ; with the Emble ms new ly designed and improved” — 

In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States, entitled “ An 
act for the encouragement of learning, b) securing the copies of maps, charts 
and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times 
therein mentioned”— and also to the act entitled ** An act supplementary to 
an act entitled * An act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the 
copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, 
during the times therein mentioned,’ and extending the benefits thereof to the 
arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical and other prints.” 

chas. a. ingf:rsoll, 

Clerk ©f the District of Connecticut 



067270 








TO THE 


OF THE 

Central CranJr (Simpler 

OF THE 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 

THIS LITTLE VOLUME 
is 

RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, 

BV 


The Author 


PREFACE 


HAVING been honoured by the approbation of the Officers of 
the General Grand Chapter of the United States, and of most of 
the Grand Lodges, and Officers of Grand Lodges, in the individ- 
ual States, as a Grand Lecturer ; — and having, by virtue of their 
sanction and authority, officiated in that capacity for several 
years ; the Author of this volume has had an opportunity of 
witnessing the mode of lecturing, and working, in many differ- 
ent Lodges. It is not surprising, therefore, if, in the course of 
his experience, some errors in the practice of these branches 
should have fallen within his observation. These have undoubt- 
edly originated from a want of uniformity ; and although they 
may not be considered as radical evils, in relation to the hidden 
mysteries of the Fraternity, yet they would certainly be regard- 
ed as defects in that system, the perfect preservation of which, 
is at once the pride and glory of every enlightened mason. 

Among these errors may be mentioned,* — the improper classi- 
fication of masonic emblems ; and a difference in the mode of 
working. 

To obviate these inaccuracies, is the object of this work. It 
contains a classification of the emblems, together with illustra- 
tions, that have been approved and adopted by a majority of the 
Lodges of the United States. So far, therefore, as they are 
connected with the mode of working, and of lecturing, the evils 
which have been suggested, will be obviated by an attention to 
this treatise : and so far only does the Author claim any merit in 
having contributed towards establishing a standard, which he 
flatters himself may serve as a safe and sure guide to his Breth- 
ren, in some parts of their labours. 

The illustrations, &.c. are selected from the compilations of 
Preston, Webb, and other established authorities, accompanied 
by such alterations and emendations, as were deemed necessary 
to a strict conformity with the Ancient System. 

With a hope that his exertions to benefit them may not prove 
fruitless, the Author respectfully submits his work TO THE 
FRATERNITY OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS 

THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES. 

1 * 


PREFACE TO THE THIRD EDITION 


SINCE the publication of the first edition of the Masonic 
Chart, it lias been adopted as a Text-Book by most of the 
Lodges and Chapters in this country. 

The highest expectations of the author have been more than 
realized in the reception of the first and second editions by his 
Masonic Brethren. Its beneficial effects in promoting a unifor- 
mity in our mode of working and lecturing, have induced him 
to present to the Fraternity the third edition, with some addi- 
tions and emendations. If his labours shall in any degree con- 
tribute to the advancement of a Society, in which he feels a 
lively interest, he will be abundantly compensated. It has been 
his constant aim to place the Masonic Institution upon its proper 
basis. The correct Mason will ever be more esteemed than the 
over-zealous or coldly indifferent members of the Society. A 
Mason who is thoroughly acquainted with the tenets and nature 
of this Institution, ranks it among the first of human origin, and 
as inculcating the purest of moral principles, and as having a 
powerful tendency, where strict discipline is judiciously admin 
istered agreeably to the tenets of the Institution, to improve the 
morals of its members, and to open and expand their hearts to 
acts of charity and pure benevolence. Those who elevate ma- 
sonry to a level with revealed religion, and those who rank it 
below the standard of pure morality, are equally unacquainted 
with its true object. 

That every Brother and Companion may possess a correct' 
knowledge of the nature and principles of our excellent Institu 
tion, and that their conduct may be such through life as to con- 
vince all with whom they may have intercourse, that our great 
aim is to inculcate FRIENDSHIP, MORALITY, BROTHER 
LY LOVE, and CH ARITY, is the earnest and sincere wish of 

THE AUTHOR 


ADVERTISEMENT. 


IN presenting' the fourth edition of the Masonic Chart to the 
Fraternity, the Author is happy to state that but few alterations 
in the last edition are necessary, except in the Emblems and 
H ieroglvphics, which are much improved by new designs, emen- 
dations and additions. While he believes the work has been 
much improved in accordance with the principles of the Institu- 
tion, he yet feels conscious that some defects may be discovered 
by the scrutinizing eye of his more experienced Brethren ; he 
would therefore solicit their forbearance and candor. In taking 
a retrospective view of the Institution, it is truly gratifying to 
every upright and correct Mason, to notice the great improve- 
ment which has been made within a few years past. — In an in- 
stitution like ours, however, which is founded on the Moral 
Law of God, and requires that all her members should w r alk in 
accordance thereto, we can easily discern that much remains 
to be done — Especially should it not be forgotten that the very 
nature of the Institution forbids the admission of any to mem- 
bership, except men sustaining the straitest moral character, 
and that no Lodge can be justified in receiving candidates solely 
for the purpose of increasing their members or their funds. — 
Let them strictly adhere to the Masonic rule, and let the “ in- 
ternal and not the external qualifications of the man” be the 
standard for admission. As every man, on entering a Lodge, 
first puts his trust in God, and then takes the “ Holy Scrip- 
tures to be the rule and guide of his faith and practice,” so 
none should be suffered to remain members who deviate there- 
from. 

It is the intention of the Author of this little volume, by the 
leave of Divine Providence, to present to his Masonic Brethren, 
as soon as convenient, a new and improved edition of the 
t: Masonic Book of Constitutions,” a work which is often 
alluded to, but seldom seen, except in a few Lodges. It is de- 
signed to give a brief History of Masonry from its commence- 
ment up to the present time, comprising also observations on 
the regulations of Lodges, duties of Officers, admission of Can- 
didates, duty of Discipline, forms of Petitions, Warrants, Char- 
ters, &c. &c. with a complete list of all the Encampments, 


8 


PREFACE. 


Councils, Chapters and Lodges in the United States. The Au- 
thor is well aware that in many parts of our country, which 
have been highly favoured with Masonic light and knowledge, 
a work of this kind would be of minor consequence, but there 
are many sections which have not been thus highly favoured', 
and where it would tend to advance the true interests of the In- 
stitution. 

The Author would improve this favourable opportunity in 
calling upon all Christian Masons to lend their aid in elevating 
the Institution to its proper level, by influencing every Mason 
by example, exhortation and persuasion, to live up to the moral 
precepts which are inculcated in it. — At the same time to guard 
them against relying on any merit in their own works as a title 
to that Rest beyond the grave, which is prepared for the chil- 
dren of God, — and to point them to Him, who is the Way, the 
Truth and the Life — to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, to the 
great Watchman of Israel, to our Divine Redeemer, whose 
name is the only name which is given under Heaven whereby 
men can be saved — who has made an atonement for sin by the 
shedding of his own blood, and who has promised that whosoever 
believeth on Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. 

That all his Brethren may not only be found Worthy , Free 
and Accepted Masons, but qualified by the Spirit of our God for 
a seat in that House not made with hands, Eternal in the Heav- 
ens, is the earnest prayer of 


THE AUTHOR. 


INTRODUCTION. 



Form of a PETITION to be signed by a Candidate 
for Initiation. 

TO the W. Master, Wardens, and Brethren of 
Lodge, No. , of Free and Accepted Ma- 
sons. 

The subscriber, residing in , of lawful age, 

and by occupation a , begs leave to state, that, 

unbiassed by friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary 
motives, he freely and voluntarily offers himself as a 
candidate for the mysteries of masonry, and that he is 
prompted to solicit this privilege by a favourable opin- 
ion conceived of the Institution, a desire of knowledge, 
and a sincere wish of being serviceable to his fellow- 
creatures. Should his petition be granted, he will 
cheerfully conform to all the ancient established usa- 
ges and customs of the Fraternity. 

(Signed) A. B. 

The following Recommendation is to be signed by 
two members of the Lodge to which the application is 
made : 

THIS may certify, that we the subscribers are per- 
sonally acquainted with Mr. A. B. ; and from a confi- 
dence in his integrity, and the uprightness of his in- 
tention, do cheerfully recommend and propose him as 
a proper candidate for the mysteries of Masonry. 

Recommended by C. D. 

Avouched for by E. F. 


INTRODUCTION., 


U 


ON OPENING AND CLOSING LODGES. 

THE ceremony of opening and closing a Lodge with' 
solemnity and decorum, is universally admitted among 
Masons : and though the mode in some Lodges may 
vary, and in every degree must, in some particulars, 
still an uniformity prevails in every Lodge; and the 
variations, if any, are only occasioned by want of 
method, which a little application might easily remove. 
To conduct this ceremony with propriety, ought to be 
the study of every Mason, but more especially those 
who are called to officiate as officers of the Lodge. 
To those of our brethren who are thus honoured, every 
eye is naturally directed for propriety of conduct and 
behaviour ; and from them, our brethren who are less 
informed will expect an example worthy of imitation. 
From a share in this ceremony, no mason can be ex- 
empted: it is a general concern, in which all must as- 
sist ; the first notice of which is given by the W. M. 
with a request of the attention and assistance of his 
brethren. No sooner has it been signified, than every 
officer repairs to his station, and the brethren rank ac- 
cording to their degrees. The next object is to detect 
impostors among ourselves, and for this purpose re- 
course is had to our peculiar rites as masons.' This 
object being accomplished, our next care is directed to 
the external avenues of the Lodge, and the proper of- 
ficers, whose province it is to discharge that duty, exe- 
cute their trust with fidelity, and by certain mystic 
forms, of no recent date, intimate that we may safely 
proceed. 

At opening the Lodge, two purposes are wisely ef- 
fected ; the master is reminded of the dignity of char- 
acter which he is to maintain from the elevation of his 
office, and the brethren of the reverence and respect 
due from them in their sundry stations. These are 
not the only advantages resulting from a due observ- 
ance of this ceremony ; — the mind is drawn with reve- 
rential awe to the Supreme Architect of the Universe, 
and the eye fixed on Him who is the only author of 


INTRODUCTION. 


li 


life and immortality. Here we are taught to worship 
and adore the supreme Jehovah, and to supplicate his 
protection and assistance in all our well-meant en- 
deavours. After the customary salutations, the master 
pronounces the Lodge to be opened in due and ancient 
form, and assumes the government, and under him his 
wardens: the brethren with one accord unite in duty 
and respect, and the business of the meeting is conduct- 
ed with order and harmony. 

At the closing of a Lodge, a similar ceremony takes 
place as at opening ; — the avenues of the Lodge are 
guarded; a recapitulation of the duties of the officers 
is rehearsed ; a proper tribute of gratitude is offered 
up to the Great Author of our existence, and his bless- 
ing invoked and extended to the whole fraternity. 

If it should be deemed necessary that the Lodge be 
opened in the several degrees, for dispatch of business, 
when that in the first degree shall have been finished, 
the W. Master, after due enquiry of the wardens and 
brethren, will proclaim it to be his will and pleasure 
that the Entered Apprentices degree be dispensed 
with for the purpose of opening on the Fellow Craft’s 
degree, and all who are not Fellow Crafts are requested 
to retire. When the necessary precautions are taken 
that none remain but those who are entitled to this 
privilege, the sentinel is again reminded of his duty, 
and the Fellow Craft’s degree opened in due form. 
When the business in this degree shall have been fin- 
ished, the Lodge is dispensed with, as in the first de- 
gree, and a Master’s Lodge opened in due form. Af- 
ter the business in the Master’s Degree is finished, the 
Lodge is closed and the labours of the Fellow Craft’s 
resumed : if nothing should offer in this degree, the 
Lodge is closed and the labours of the Entered Ap- 
prentices’ resumed. Should nothing further offer in 
this degree, the records of the evening having been 
read and approved, the Lodge is closed in due and an- 
cient form. 

These arc but faint outlines of the ceremonies which 
prevail among masons, in every country, and distin- 
guish all their meetings. 


INTRODUCTION', 


12 


FORMS OF PRAYERS, CHARGES, &c. 

A Prayer used on opening a Lodge. 

Most holy and glorious Lord God, the great Archi- 
tect of the universe, the giver of all good gifts and gra- 
ces : Thou hast promised, that “ where two or three 
are gathered together in thy name, thou wilt be in the 
midst of them, and bless them.” In thy name we as- 
semble, most humbly beseeching thee to bless us in all 
our undertakings, that we may know and serve thee 
aright, and that all our actions may tend to thy glory, 
and to our advancement in knowledge and virtue. 
And we beseech thee, O Lord God, to bless our pres- 
ent assembling, and to illuminate our minds, through 
the intercession of the Son of Righteousness, that we 
may walk in the light of thy countenance ; and when 
the trials of our probationary state are over, be admit- 
ted into THE TEMPLE “not made with hands, 
eternal in the heavens.” 

So mote it be. Amen. 

A Prayer at Closing . 

Supreme Architect of the universe, accept our hum- 
ble praises for the many mercies and blessings which 
thy bounty has conferred on us, and especially for this 
friendly and social intercourse. Pardon, we beseech 
thee, whatever thou hast seen amiss in us since we 
have been together; and continue to us thy presence, 
protection, and blessing. Make us sensible of the 
renewed obligations we are under to love thee su- 
premely, and to be friendly to each other. May all 
our irregular passions be subdued, and may we daily 
increase in Faith , Hope , and Charity ; but more es- 
pecially in that Charity , which is the bond of peace, 
and the perfection of every virtue. May we so prac- 
tice thy precepts, that, through the merits of the Re- 
deemer, we may finally obtain thy promises, and find 
an entrance through the gates into the temple and city 
erf our God. So mote it be. Amen. 


INTRODUCTION. 


13 


Benediction at Closing. 

May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us and all 
regular masons ! May brotherly love prevail, and ev- 
ery moral and social virtue cement us ! 

So mote it be. Amen. 

Charge at Closing. 

Brethren, 

We are now about to quit this sacred retreat of 
friendship and virtue, to mix again with the world. 
Amidst its concerns and employments, forget not the 
duties which you have heard so frequently inculcated, 
and so forcibly recommended in this Lodge. Be dili- 
gent, prudent, temperate, discreet. Remember, that 
around this altar, you have promised to befriend and 
relieve every brother, who shall need your assistance. 
You have promised, in the most friendly manner to re- 
mind him of his errors, and aid a reformation. These 
generous principles are to extend further. Every hu- 
man being has a claim upon your kind offices. D< 
good unto all. Recommend it more especially “ to the 
household of the faithful.” Finally, brethren, be ye 
all of one mind ; live in peace ; and may the God of 
love and peace delight to dwell with and bless you. 


RECOMMENDATIONS. 


[For the information of those of the Fraternity, with whom the 
Author of this little volume has not had the pleasure of an ac- 
quaintance, he would submit the following, from a large num- 
ber of Certificates, in testimony of his masonic qualifications.] 

TO THE FRATERNITY OF FREE AND ACCEPTED , 
MASONS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES 

OF NORTH-AMERICA Greeting. 

KNOW YE, That we, the undersigned, having duly examined 
our worthy Companion, Jeremy L. Cross, do find him well 
skilled and correct in the Lectures and mode of working in the 
three first Degrees of Ancient Free Masonry , as received, sanc- 
tioned, and directed to be taught, by the several Grand Lodges 
of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, 
Vermont, New-York, and New-Jersey. Also, with the Lectures 
and mode of working in the several Degrees of Mark Master, 
Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Masonry, 
as sanctioned and directed to be taught by the Officers of the 
General Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the United States of N. 
America. We do therefore cheerfully recommend him as fully 
competent to teach the same. 

Duly appreciating the utility that would arise from a greater 
uniformity in our mode of working and Lecturing ; and as the 
good of the INSTITUTION demands it; we do therefore earn- 
estly recommend to the whole Fraternity, to receive, sanction, 
and adopt the same. 

Witness our Hands. 

M. E. and Hon. DEWITT CLINTON, Gen. Grand High Priest 
of the Gen. Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the U. States of A- 
merica ; also Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of N. York. 

M. E. HENRY FOWLE, Esq. D G. G. H. Priest of the G. G. 
R. A. C. of the U. S. A. ; also Deputy Grand High Priest of 
the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts. 

M. E. THOMAS SMITH WEBB, Esq. P. D. G. G. H. Priest of 
the G. G. R A. C. of the U. S A.; also Past Grand Master 
of the Grand Lodge of Rhode-Island. 

M. E. JOHN SNOW, Esq. G. G. King of the G. G. R. A. C. of 
theU. S. A. ; also G. H. Priest of the Grand Chapter of Ohio . 
M. E. JOHN HART LYNDE, Esq. P. G. G. King of the G. G. 
R. A. C. of the U. S. A. ; also Past Senior G. Warden of the 
Grand Lodge of Connecticut 


RECQA1MENBATIONS. 


15 


M. E. PHTLTP P. ECKEL, Esq. G. G. Scribe of the G. G. R. 
A. C. of the U. S. A. ; also Past G. High Priest of the Grand 
Chapter of Maryland and' District of Columbia. 

M. E. PETER GRINNELL, Esq. G. G. Treasurer of the G. G. 
R. A. C. of the U. S. A. 


M. E. OTIS AMI DON, P. G. G. Secretary of the G. G. R. A. C 
of the U. S. A. 


M. W. JOHN H ARRIS, Grand Master, 

R. VV. ALBE CADY r , Senior G. Warden, 
R. W. STEPHEN BLANCHARD, Junior 
G. Warden, 

R. W. HORACE CHASE, G. Lecturer, 

M W. FRANCIS J. OLIVER, G. Master, 
R. W. JOHN D1XWELL, Deputy G. M. 
R. W. AUGUSTUS PEABODY, Senior G. 
Warden, 


1 

j of the Grand 
Lodge of 
j New-Hampshire. 


of the Grand 
Lodge of 
Massachusetts. 


M. W. JOHN CARLILE, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge 
of Rhode-Island. 


R. YV. LYMAN LAW, Deputy G. Master, ) of the Grand 
R. W. THOMAS H. CUSHING, Senior G. V Lodge of 
Warden, ) Connecticut. 

M. W. LEMUEL WHITNEY, G. Master of the Grand Lodge 
of Vermont, 

M. W JAMES GILES, G. Master of the Grand Lodge of New- 
Jersey. 


YVE, the undersigned, Officers in the General Grand Royal 
Arch Chapter of the United States of America, no approve and 
recommend “ The True Masonic Chart, or Hieroglyphic Moni- 
tor,” designed and arranged by our worthy Companion, Jeremy 
L. Cross, as entitled to the attention and use of the Craft ; be- 
ing a valuable assistant in elucidating the various Masonic Em- 
blems, and enabling the diligent Craftsman to acquire the Lec- 
tures in the several degrees of jhicienl Free Masonry. 

M. E. DEWITT CLINTON, General Grand High Priest. 

HENRY FOWLE, Deputy Gen. Grand High Priest. 

JOHN SNOW, General Grand King. 

PHILIP P. ECKEL, General Grand Scribe. 

PETER GRINNELL, General Grand Treasurer. 

JOHN ABBOT, General Grand Secretary. 

DAVID G. COWAN, General Grand Marshal. 

JOHN H ARRIS, Past Gen. Grand Marshal , also M. W. 

G. Master of the Grand Lodge of New-Hampshire. 


16 


RECOMMENDATIONS. 


WE, the Subscribers, Officers of the Grand Royal Arch Chap- 
ter of Connecticut, having examined “ The Masonic Chart, or 
Hieroglyphic Monitor,” designed by our worthy Companion, R. 
W. Jeremy L. Cross, for the use and instruction of the Craft, 
with pleasure recommend the same as a necessary and useful 
Manual for all Free Masons; containing an elegant and com- 
prehensive view' of all the Symbols used in Lecturing upon the 
several Degrees of Ancient Masonry. 

M. E. LYMAN LAW, G. H. Priest. 

M. E. LABAN SMITH, D. G. H. Priest. 

E. DAVID DEMING, G. King. 

E. THOMAS H. CUSHING, G. Scribe. 

Comp. HENRY CHAMPION, G. Treasurer. 

HORATIO G. HALE, G. Secretary. 

MENZIES RAYNER, G. Chaplain. 

SAMUEL GREEN, G. Marshal. 


Extract from the proceedings of the Most Worshipful Grand 
Lodge of Connecticut, May, A. L. 5820. 
RESOLVED, That this Grand Lodge approve of the Masonic 
Chart, published by Brother Jeremy L. Cross, and recommend 
it to be used as a Masonic Text-Book in all the Lodges working 
under this jurisdiction. 

A true copy from the minutes. 

Attest— WM. H. JONES, G. Secretary. 


Extract from the proceedings of the Grand Royal Arch 

Chapter of Connecticut, May, A. D. 1820, and of R. A. 

M. 2350. 

RESOLVED, That this Grand Chapter approve of the Ma- 
sonic Chart, published by Companion Jeremy L. Cross, and 
recommend it to be used as a Text-Book in the several Chapters 
under their jurisdiction. 

A true copy from the minutes. 

Attest — E. GOODRICH, jun. Grand Secretary. 























Ssamu 




1026 


ENTERED APPRENTICE DEGREE. 


Section First. 




4 


Section Ttiird. 



A 






6 






• - 



































■ 














* 










( 




10 





• / 
> 




V 


FELDQW CRAFTS DEGREE. 


Section First 





Section Second. 



15 






II 





♦ 



V 


15 





16 



l 


vt 




17 

MASTER MASONS DEGREE 

Section First. 



Section Second. 









u> 


Section Third. 







1,453. Columns. 
%,9 0 6'. Pilasters. 


20 


% 3 . Grand Ma sters . 

3,30(1. Overseers. 

SO, 000. Fellow Crafts. 
70,000. Entered apprentices. 




Y 


/ 









♦ 



























9 











% 







































I 




\ 





s 



MARK MASTERS DEGREE 


20 


Section First. 








£ ( 'hroiiicle # 






PAS T 


28 









29 


MOST EXCEELEJNTT MASTERS 

DE GHEE. 



H 







ROAAL ARCH DEGREE. 

Section First. 


30 



r ■ 


Til 





o2 






Section Second. 
































i .* 

J. , < 



Exodus ¥. 1.-6. 








* 











34 



Destruction o»y JERUSALEM bt Webuceuvdnkzzab , 


4 






□□□□□□□ □□□□□□ 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 


□□□□□□□□□□is. .-i 
□□□□□□□□□□!§ LO 
□□□□□□□□□□□□ 
□□□□□□□□□□□ 
□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□□ 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 



□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□ 
□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 
□□□□□□□□□□□□a 






» 


I 


5T 





# 




% 




1 














58 





59 





Kzra V. 3. if 






40 


t 








41 



4 2 - 





.* 





45 

ROYAL MASTERS DEGREE . 


44 



A 




45 


SELECT MASTERS DEGREE. 



X, 


46 




« 



*1 


9 









48 






• / 


■ 













. 


















* 























■ 








































; , v .. I 


ENTERED APPRENTICE’S 
DEGREE. 


SECTION FIRST. 

The first section consists of general heads; 
which, though short and simple, carry weight with 
them, and qualify us to try and examine the rights of 
others to our privileges, while they prove ourselves. 
It also accurately elucidates the mode of initiating a 
candidate into our ancient order. 

A Prayer used at the Initiation of a Candidate. 

Vouchsafe thine aid, Almighty Father of the uni- 
verse, to this our present convention ; and gran j hat 
this candidate for masonry may dedicate and devote 
his life to thy service, and become a true and faithful 
brother among us! Endue him with a competency of 
thy divine Wisdom, that by the secrets of ourart he may 
be better enabled to display the Beauties of Holiness, 
to the honour of thy holy name ! So mote it be. Amen. 

The following passage of scripture is rehearsed dur- 
ing the ceremony. 

Behold ! how good and how pleasant it is for breth- 
ren to dwell together in unity : 

It is like the precious ointment upon the head, d at 
ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that 
went down to the skirts of his garment: 

2 


16 


MASONie CHART. 


The greatest of these is Charity ; for our Faith may 
be lost in sight ; Hope ends in fruition ; but Charity 
extends beyond the grave, through the boundless realms 
of eternity. 

Every well -governed Lodge is furnished with the 
Holy Bible , the Square, and the Compasses. 

The Holy Bible is dedicated to God ; the Square, 
to the Master ; and the Compasses, to the Craft. 

The Bible is dedicated to God, because it is the in- 
estimable gift of God to man ; *** the square to the 
master, because it is the proper masonic emblem of his 
office ; and the compasses to the craft, because, by a due 
attention to their use, they are taught to circumscribe 
their desires, and keep their passions within due bounds. 

The Ornaments of a Lodge, are the Mosaic pave- 
ment, the indented tessel, and the blazing star. The 
Mosaic pavement is a representation of the ground 
floor of King Solomon’s temple; the indented tessel , 
that beautiful tesselated border, or skirting, which sur- 
rounded it ; and the blazing star in the centre, is com- 
memorative of the Star which appeared, to guide the 
wise men of the East to the place of our Saviour’s 
nativity. 

The Mosaic pavement is emblematical of human life, 
chequered with good and evil ; the beautiful border 
which surrounds it, those manifold blessings and com- 
forts which surround us, and which we hope to enjoy 
by a faithful reliance on Divine Providence, which is 
hieroglyphically represented by the blazing star in the 
centre. 

The moveable and immoveable Jewels also claim our 
attention in this section. 

The rough ashler is a stone as taken from the quar- 
ry in its rude and natural state. 

The perfect* ashler is a stone made ready by the 
hands of the workmen, to be adjusted by the working 
tools of the Fellow Craft. The trestle-board is for the 
master workman to draw his designs upon. 


ENTERED APPRENTICE. 


17 


By the rough ashler , we are reminded of our rude 
and imperfect state by nature ; by the perfect ashler , 
that state of perfection at which we hope to arrive by 
a virtuous education, our own endeavours, and the 
blessing of God ; and by the trestle-board , we are also 
reminded, that as the operative workman erects his 
temporal building agreeably to the rules and designs 
laid down by the master, on his trestle-board, so 
should we, both operative and speculative, endeavour 
to erect our spiritual building agreeably to the rules 
and designs laid down by the Supreme Architect of 
the universe, in the great Books of nature and revela- 
tion, which is our spiritual, moral, and masonic tres- 
tle-board. 

Lodges were anciently dedicated to King Solomon, 
as it is said he was the first Most Excellent Grand 
Master : Yet masons professing Christianity dedicate 
theirs to St. John the Baptist, and St. John the Evan- 
gelist, who were two eminent Christian patrons of ma- 
sonry; and since their time, there is represented, in 
every regular and well -governed Lodge, a certain point 
within a circle* embordered by two perpendicular^par- 
allel lines, representing St. John the Baptist and St. 
John the Evangelist; and upon the top rests the Holy 
Scriptures. In going round this circle, we necessarily 
touch upon these two lines, as well as the Holy Scrip- 
tures ; and while a mason keeps himself circumscribed 
within their precepts, it is impossible that he should 
materially err. 

Of Brotherly Love. 

By the exercise of brotherly love, we are taught to 
regard the whole human species as one family; the 
high and low, the rich and poor ; who, as created by 
one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants of the same 
planet, are to aid, support, and protect each other. 
On this principle, masonry unites men of every coun- 
try, sect and opinion, and conciliates true friendship 

* The point represents an individual brother ; the circle the 
boundary line, beyond which he is never to suffer his prejudices 
or passions to betray him. 


is 


MASONIC CHART 


among those who might otherwise have remained at a 
perpetual distance. 

Of Relief 

To relieve the distressed, is a duty incumbent on all 
men ; but particularly on masons, who are linked to- 
gether by an indissoluble chain of sincere affection. 
To soothe the unhappy ; to sympathize with their 
misfortunes ; to compassionate their miseries* and to 
restore peace to their troubled minds, is the great aim 
we have in view. On this basis, we form our friend- 
ships and establish our connections. 

Of Truth . 

Truth is a divine attribute, and the foundation of ev- 
ery virtue. To be good and true, is the first lesson we 
are taught in masonry. On this theme we contemplate, 
and by its dictates endeavour to regulate our conduct : 
hence, while influenced by this principle, hypocrisy 
and deceit are unknown among us; sincerity and 
plain dealing distinguish us ; and the heart and 
tongue join in promoting each other’s welfare, and re- 
joicing in each other’s prosperity. 

An Explanation of the four Cardinal Virtues; 
which are. Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, 
and Justice. 

Of Temperance . 

Temperance is that due restraint upon our affec- 
tions and passions, which renders the body tame and 
governable, and frees the mind from the allurements of 
vice. This virtue should be the constant practice of 
every mason ; as he is thereby taught to avoid excess, 
or contracting any licentious or vicious habit, the in- 
dulgence of which might lead him to disclose some of 
those valuable secrets, which he has promised to con- 
ceal and never reveal, and which would consequently 
subject him to the contempt and detestation of all good 
masons. ***** 


ENTERED APPRENTICE. 


19 


Of Fortitude . 

Fortitude is that noble and steady purpose of the 
mind, whereby we are enabled to undergo any pain, 
peril, or danger, when prudentially deemed expedient. 
This virtue is equally distant from rashness and cow- 
ardice ; and, like the former, should be deeply impres- 
sed upon the mind of every mason, as a safe guard or 
security against any illegal attack that may be made, 
by force or otherwise, to extort from him any of those 
valuable secrets with which he has been so solemnly in- 
trusted, and which were emblematically represented 
upon his first admission into the Lodge. * * * * * 

Of Prudence. 

Prudence teaches us to regulate our lives and ac- 
tions agreeably to the dictates of reason, and is that 
habit by which we wisely judge, and prudentially de- 
termine, on all tilings relative to our present as well as 
to our future happiness. This virtue should be the pe- 
culiar characteristic of every mason, not only for the 
government of his conduct while in the Lodge, but 
also when abroad in the world. It should be particu- 
larly attended to, in all strange and mixed companies, 
never to let fall the least sign, token, or word, whereby 
the secrets of masonry might be unlawfully obtained. 
***** 


Of Justice . 

Justice is that standard, or boundary of right, which 
enables us to render to every man his just due, with- 
out distinction. This virtue is not only consistent with 
divine and human laws, but is the very cement and 
support of civil society ; and as justice in a great meas- 
ure constitutes the real good man, so should it be the 
invariable practice of every mason, never to deviate 
from the minutest principles thereof. * * * * * 

The illustration of these virtues is accompanied 
with some general observations peculiar to masons. 
Due veneration is also paid to our ancient patrons. 


20 


MASONIC CHART. 


CHARGE at Initiation into the First Degree . 
Brother, 

As you are now introduced into the first princi- 
ples of masonry, I congratulate you on being ac- 
cepted into this ancient and honourable order : — 
ancient, as having subsisted from time immemorial, 
and honourable, as tending, in every particular, 
so to render all men who will be conformable to 
its precepts. No institution was ever raised on a 
better principle, or more solid foundation ; nor 
were ever more excellent rules and useful max- 
ims laid down, than are inculcated in the several 
masonic lectures. The greatest and best of men, 
in all ages, have been encouragers and promoters 
of the art ; and have never deemed it derogatory 
to their dignity, to level themselves with the fra- 
ternity, extend their privileges, and patronize their 
assemblies. There are three great duties, which, 
as a mason, you are charged to inculcate — to God, 
your neighbour, and yourself. To God, in nev- 
er mentioning his name, but with that reverential 
awe which is due from a creature to his Creator ; 
to implore his aid in all your laudable under- 
takings, and to esteem him as the chief good : — 
to your neighbour, in acting upon the square, and 
doing unto him as you wish he should do unto 
you : — and to yourself, in avoiding all irregularity 
and intemperance, which may impair your facul- 
ties, or debase the dignity of your profession. A 
zealous attachment to these duties, will insure pub- 
lic and private esteem. 


ENTERED APPRENTICE. 


21 


In the State, you are to be a quiet and peace- 
ful subject, true to your government, and just to 
your country; you are not to countenance dis- 
loyalty or rebellion, but patiently submit to legal 
authority, and conform with cheerfulness to the 
government of the country in which you live. 
In your outward demeanour, be particularly careful 
to avoid censure or reproach. 

Although your frequent appearance at our reg- 
ular meetings is earnestly solicited, yet it is not 
meant that masonry should interfere with your ne- 
cessary vocations ; for these are on no account to 
be neglected ; — neither are you to suffer your zeal 
for the institution to lead you into argument with 
those who, through ignorance, may ridicule it. 

At your leisure hours, that you may improve in 
masonic knowledge, you are to converse with well 
informed brethren, who will be always as ready to 
give, as you will be ready to receive, instruction. 

Finally, keep sacred and inviolable the myste- 
ries of the order; as these are to distinguish you 
from the rest of the community, and mark your 
consequence among masons. If, in the circle of 
your acquaintance, you find a person desirous of 
being initiated into masonry, be particularly at- 
tentive not to recommend him, unless you are con- 
vinced he will conform to our rules ; that the hon- 
our, glory, and reputation of the institution, may 
be firmly established, and the world at large con- 
vinced of its good effects. 


FELLOW-CRAFT S DEGREE. 




SECTION FIRST. 

THE first section recapitulates the ceremony of 
initiation into this class; and instructs the diligent 
craftsman how to proceed in the proper arrangement 
of the ceremonies used on the occasion. It should 
therefore be well understood by every officer and 
member of the Lodge. 

Amos vii. 7, 8. 

“ Thus he shewed me ; and behold the Lord stood 
upon a wail made by a plumb-line, with a plumb-line 
in his hand. And the Lord said unto me, Amos, what 
seest thou ? And I said, A plumb-line. Then said the 
Lord, Behold, I will set a plumb-line in the midst of my 
people Israel : I will not again pass by them any more.’* 

The working tools of a fellow-craft are here introdu- 
ced and explained ; which are the plumb, square , and 
level . 

The plumb is an instrument made use of bv opera- 
tive masons, to raise perpendiculars ; the square , to 
square the work ; and the level, to lay horizontals ; 
but we, as free and accepted masons, are taught to make 
use of them for more noble and glorious purposes : 
I he plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in our 
several stations before God and man, squaring our ac • 


FELLOW CRAFT. 


25 


tions by the square of virtue, and remembering that we 
are travelling upon the level of time, to “ that undis- 
covered country, from whose bourne no traveller re- 
turns.” 


SECTION SECOND. 

The second section of this degree refers to the origin 
of the institution ; and views masonry under two de- 
nominations, operative and speculative, fhe period 
stipulated for rewarding merit, is here fixed ; and the 
inimitable moral to which that circumstance alludes, is 
explained. The celestial and terrestrial globes are 
considered ; and here the accomplished mason may 
display his talents to advantage, in elucidating the 
Orders of Architecture, the Senses of human nature, 
and the liberal Arts and Sciences, which are severally 
classed in a regular arrangement. 

Masonry is considered under two denominations ; 
operative and speculative. 

Operative Masonry. 

By operative masonry, we allude to a proper applica- 
tion of the useful rules of architecture, whence a struc- 
ture will derive figure, strength, and beauty, and whence 
will result a due proportion and a just correspondence 
in all its parts. It furnishes us with dwellings, and 
convenient shelters from the vicissitudes and inclem- 
encies of seasons: and while it displays the effects of 
human wisdom, as well in the choice, as in the ar- 
rangement, of the sundiy materials of which an edifice 
is composed, it demonstrates that a fund of science 
and industry is implanted in man, for the best, most 
salutary, and beneficent purposes. 

Speculative Masonry. 

By speculative masonry, we learn to subdue the pas- 
sions, act upon the square, keep a tongue of good re- 
port, maintain secrecy, and practice charity. It is 


24 


MASONIC CHART. 


so far interwoven with religion, as to lay us under obli - 
gation to pay that rational homage to the Deity, which 
at once constitutes our duty and our happiness. It 
leads the contemplative to view, with reverence and 
admiration, the glorious works of creation, and inspires 
him with the most exalted ideas of the perfections of 
his divine Creator. 

In six days, God created the heavens and the earth, 
and rested upon the seventh day ; — the seventh, there- 
fore, our ancient brethren consecrated as a day of rest 
from their labors ; thereby enjoying frecjuent opportu- 
nities to contemplate the glorious works of creation, 
and to adore their great Creator. 

Peace, Unity, and Plenty, are here introduced and 
explained. 

The next is the doctrine of the Spheres in the 
science of Astronomy, introduced and considered. 

Of the Globes. 

The Globes are two artificial and spherical bodies ; 
on the convex surface of which are represented , the 
countries , seas, and various parts of the earth, the face 
of the heavens, the planetary revolutions , and other par- 
ticulars. 


The Use of the Globes. 

Their principal use, beside serving as maps to dis- 
tinguish the outward parts of the earth, and the situa- 
tion of the fixed stars, is to illustrate and explain the 
phenomena arising from the annual revolution, and 
the diurnal rotation, of the earth round its own axis. 
They are the noblest instruments for improving the 
mind , and giving it the most distinct idea of any pro- 
blem or proposition , as well as enabling it to solve the 
same. Contemplating these bodies, we are inspired 
with a due reverence for the Deity and his works, and 
are induced to encourage the studies of astronomy , 
geography, and navigation, and the arts dependent on 
them , by which society has been so much benefited. 


FELLOW CRAFT. 


25 


As the five Orders of Architecture are considered in 
this section, a brief description of them may not be 
improper. 

Of Order in Architecture. 

By order in architecture, is meant a system of all 
the members, proportions, and ornaments of columns 
and pilasters ; — or, it is a regular arrangement of the 
projecting parts of a building, which, united with those 
of a column, form a beautiful, perfect, and complete 
whole. 

Of its Antiquity. 

From the first formation of society, order in archi- 
tecture may be traced. When the rigour of seasons 
obliged men to contrive shelter from the inclemency 
of the weather, we learn that they first planted trees 
on end, and then laid others across, to support a 
covering. The bands which connected those trees at 
top and bottom, are said to have given rise to the idea 
of the base and capital of pillars ; and from this sim- 
ple hint originally proceeded the more improved art of 
architecture. 

The five Orders are thus classed; — the Tuscan , 
Boric, Ionic , Corinthian , and Composite. 

The Tuscan 

Is the most simple and solid of the Jive orders. It 
was invented in Tuscany, whence it derives its name. 
The simplicity of the construction of this column ren- 
ders it eligible where ornament would be superfluous. 

The Doric, 

Which is plain and natural, is the most ancient, and 
was invented by the Greeks. Its column is eight 
diameters high, and has seldom any ornaments on base 
or capital , except mouldings ; though the frieze is dis- 
tinguished by triglyphs and metopes ; and triglyphs 
compose the ornaments of the frieze. 

3 


26 


MASONIC CHART. 


The Doric is the best proportioned of all the orders. 
The several parts of which it is composed ', are founded 
on the natural position of solid bodies. In its first in- 
vention, it was more simple than in its present state. In. 
after times, when it began to be adorned, it gained the 
name of Doric ; for when it was constructed in its pri- 
mitive and simple form, the name of Tuscan was con- 
ferred onlit. Hence the Tuscan precedes the Doric in 
rank , on account of its resemblance to that pillar in its 
original state. 

The Ionic 

Bears a kind of mean proportion between the more 
solid and delicate orders. Its column is nine diameters 
high ; its capital is adorned with volutes, and its cor- 
nice has dentals. There is both delicacy and in- 
genuity displayed in this pillar ; the invention of 
which is attributed to the Ionians, as the famous tem- 
ple of Diana at Ephesus was of this order. It is said 
to have been formed after the model of an agreeable 
young woman, of an elegant shape, dressed in her 
hair ; as a contrast to the Doric order, which was for- 
med after that of a strong, robust man. 

The Corinthian, 

The richest of the five orders, is deemed a master- 
piece of art. Its column is ten diameters high, and its 
capital is adorned with two rows of leaves, and eight 
volutes, which sustain the abacus. The frieze is or- 
namented with curious devices, the cornice with dentals 
and modillions. This order is used in stately and 
superb structures. 

Of the Invention of this Order. 

It was invented at Corinth, by Callimachus, who is 
said to have taken the hint of the capital of this pillar 
from the following remarkable circumstance. Accident- 
ally passing by the tomb of a young lady, he perceived 
a basket of toys covered with tile, placed over an acan- 
thus root, having been left there by her nurse. As the 


FELLOW GRAFT. 


27 


branches grew up, they encompassed the basket, till, 
arriving at the tile, they met with an obstruction, and 
bent downwards. Callimachus, struck with the object , 
set about imitating the figure : the vase of the capital he 
made to represent the basket ; the abacus the tile ; and 
the volutes the bending leaves . 

. The Composite 

Is compounded of the other orders, and was con- 
trived by the Romans. Its capital has the two roivs 
of leaves of the Corinthian, andthe volutes of the loviic. 
hs column has quarter -rounds, as the Tuscan and 
Doric order ; is ten diameters high ; and its cornice 
has dentals , or simple modillions. This pillar is gen- 
erally found in buildings where strength, elegance and 
beauty are displayed. 

Of the Invention of Order in Architecture. 

The ancient and original orders of architecture re- 
vered by masons, are no more than three ; the Doric, 
Ionic, and Corinthian, which were invented by the 
Greeks. To these the Romans have added two ; 
the Tuscan, which they made plainer than the Doric ; 
and the Composite, ivhich was more ornamental , if not 
more beautiful, than the Corinthian. The first three or- 
ders alone, however, show invention and particular 
character, and essentially differ from each other : the 
two others have nothing but what is borrowed, and 
differ only accidentally : the Tuscan is the Doric in 
its earliest state : and the Composite is the Corinthian 
enriched with the Ionic. To the Greeks, therefore, 
aud not to the Romans, are we indebted for what is 
great, judicious and distinct, in architecture. 

Of the Five Senses of Human Nature, which are. 
Hearing, Seeing, Feeling, Smelling, and 
Tasting. 

Hearing 

Is that sense by which we distinguish sounds , and 
are capable of enjoying all the agreeable charms of 


38 


MASONIC CHART. 


music. By it we are enabled to enjoy the pleasures 
of society , and reciprocally to communicate to each 
other our thoughts and intentions , our purposes and 
desires ; while thus our reason is capable of exerting 
its utmost power and energy. 

The wise and beneficent Author of Nature intend - 
ed, by the formation of this sense, that we should be 
social creatures, and receive the greatest and most im- 
portant part of our knowledge by the information of 
others. For these purposes, we are endowed with 
hearing, that by a proper exertion of our rational pow- 
ers, our happiness may be complete. 

Seeing 

Is that sense by which toe distinguish objects, and 
in an instant of time , without change of place or situa- 
tion, view armies in battle array, figures of the most 
stately structures, and all the agreeable variety display- 
ed in the landscape of nature. By this sense, toe find 
our way on the pathless ocean, traverse the globe of the 
earth , determine its figure and dimensions , and delin- 
eate any region or quarter of it. By it we measure the 
planetary orbs, and make new discoveries in the sphere 
of the fixed stars. Nay, more : by it we perceive the 
tempers and dispositions, the passions and affections, of 
our felloiv-creatures, when they wish most to conceal 
them : so that though the tongue may be taught to lie 
and dissemble, the countenance woidd display the hy- 
pocrisy to the discerning eye. In fine, the rays of 
light, which administer to this sense, are the most as- 
tonishing part of the animated creation , and render 
the eye a peculiar object of admiration. 

Of all the faculties, sight is the noblest. The struc- 
ture of the eye, and its appurtenances, evince the ad- 
mirable contrivance of nature for performing all its 
various external and internal motions ; while the va- 
riety displayed in the eyes of different animals, suited 
to their several ways of life, clearly demonstrates this 
organ to be the master-piece of Nature’s work. 


FELLOW CBAFT. 


29 


Feeling 

Is that sense by which we distinguish the different 
qualities of bodies : such as heat and cold, hardness , 
and softness, roughness, and smoothness, figure, so- 
lidity, motion, and extension. 

These three senses, Hearing, Seeing, and Feeling, 
are most revered among masons. 

Smelling 

Is that sense , by which we distinguish odours , the 
various kinds of which convey different impressions to 
the mind. Animal and vegetable bodies , and indeed 
most other bodies , while exposed to the air , continually 
send forth effluvia of vast subtilty, as well in the state 
of life and growth , as in the state of fermentation and 
putrefaction. These effluvia being drawn into the 
nostrils along with the air, are the means by which all 
bodies are smelled. Hence it is evident that there is a 
manifest appearance of design in the great Creator’s 
having planted the organ of smell in the inside of that 
canal, through which the air continually passes in res- 
piration. 


Tasting 

Enables us to make a proper distinction in the choice 
of our food. The organ of this sense guards the en- 
trance of the alimentary canal, as that of smelling 
guards the entrance of the canal for respiration. From 
the situation of both these organs , it is plain that they 
were intended by nature to distinguish wholesome food 
from that which is nauseous. Every thing that enters 
into the stomach, must undergo the scrutiny of tasting ; 
and by it we are capable of discerning the changes 
which the same body undergoes in the different compo- 
sitions of art, cookery, chemistry, pharmacy, fyc. 

Smelling and tasting are inseparably connected ; 
and it is by the unnatural kind of life men commonly 
lead in society, that these senses are rendered less fit to 
perform their natural offices. 


50 


MASONIC CHAR'?., 


Of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences ; — which arc. 
Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Ge- 
ometry, Music, and Astronomy. 

Grammar 

Teaches the proper arrangement of words , according 
to the idiom or dialect of any particular people ; and 
that excellency of pronunciation, which enables us to 
speak or write a language with accuracy , agreeably to 
reason and correct usage. 

Rhetoric 

Teaches us to speak copiously and fluently on any 
subject , not merely with propriety alone , but with all the 
advantages of force and. elegance , wisely contriving to 
captivate the hearer by strength of argument and 
beauty of expression , whether it be to entreat or exhort, 
to admonish or applaud. 


Logic 

Teaches us to guide our reason discretionally in the 
general knowledge of things , and directs our inquiries 
after truth. It consists of a regular train of argu- 
ment, whence we infer, deduce and conclude, according 
to certain premises laid down, admitted, or granted ; 
and in it are employed the faculties of conceiving , 
judging, reasoning and disposing $ all of which are 
naturally led on from one gradation to another, till the 
point in question is finally determined. 

Arithmetic 

Teaches the powers and properties of numbers, which 
is variously effected, by Letters, tables , figures, and 
instruments. By this art, reasons and demonstrations 
are given , for finding out any certain number, whose 
relation or affinity to another is already known or dis- 
covered. 


FELLOW CRAFT. 


31 


Geometry. 

Geometry treats of the powers and properties of 
magnitudes in general, where length, breadth, and 
thickness, are considered, from a point to a line, 
from a line to a superficies, and from a superficies to 
a solid. 

A point is a dimentionless figure ; or an indivisible 
part of a space. 

A line is a point continued, and a figure of one ca- 
pacity, namely, length. 

A superficies is a figure of two dimensions, namely, 
length, and breadth. 

A solid is a figure of three dimensions, namely, 
length, breadth, and thickness. 

Of the Advantages of Geometry. 

By this science, the architect is enabled to cohstruct 
his plans, and execute his designs ; the general to ar- 
range his soldiers ; the geographer to give us the di- 
mensions of the world, and all things therein contain- 
ed ; to delineate the extent of seas, and specify the 
divisions of empires, kingdoms and provinces. By it, 
also, the astronomer is enabled to make his observa- 
tions, and to fix the duration of time and seasons, 
years and cycles. 

In fine, geometry is the foundation of architecture, 
and the root of the mathematics. 

Music 

Teaches the art of forming concords , so as to com- 
pose deiightful harmony , by a mathematical and pro- 
portional arrangement of acute , grave , and mixed 
sounds. This art , by a series of experiments , is redu- 
ced to a demonstrative science, with respect to tones and 
the intervals of sound. It inquires into the nature of 
concords and discords , and enables us to find out the 
proportion between them by numbers. 


MASONIC CHART. 


ft ft 


Astronomy 

Is that divine art , by which we are taught to read the 
wisdom , strength and beauty , of the Almighty Creator , 
in those sacred pages, the celestial hemisphere. 

Assisted by astronomy , we can observe the magni- 
tudes, and calculate the periods and eclipses of the 
heavenly bodies. By it, we learn the use of globes, the 
system of the world, and the preliminary law of nature. 
While we are employed in the study of this science, we 
must perceive unparalleled instances of "wisdom and 
goodness ; and, through the whole creation , trace the 
glorious Author by his works. 

[Here an emblem of Plenty is introduced and ex- 
plained.] 

Of the Moral Advantages of Geometry. 

Geometry, the first and noblest of sciences, is the 
basis on which the superstructure of masonry is erect- 
ed. By geometry, we may curiously trace Nature 
through her various windings, to her most concealed 
recesses. By it, we may discover the power, the wis- 
dom and the goodness of the Grand Artificer of the 
universe, and view with delight the proportions which 
connect this vast machine. 

By it, we may discover how the planets move in 
their different orbits, and demonstrate their various 
revolutions. By it we account for the return of sea- 
sons, and the variety of scenes which each season dis- 
plays to the discerning eye. Numberless worlds are 
around us, all framed by the same Divine Artist, 
which roll through the vast expanse, and are all con- 
ducted by the same unerring law of nature. 

A survey of Nature, and the observations of her 
beautiful proportions, first determined man to imitate 
the divine plan, and study symmetry and order. This 
gave rise to societies, and birth to every useful art. 
The architect began to design ; and the plans which he 
laid down, being improved by experience and time, have 
produced works which are the admiration of every age. 


FELLOW CRAFT. 


33 

The lapse of time, the ruthless hand of ignorance, 
and the devastations of war, have laid waste and de- 
stroyed many valuable monuments of antiquity ; on 
which the utmost exertions of human genius have been 
employed. Even the temple of Solomon, so spacious 
and magnificent, and constructed by so many celebra- 
ted artists, escaped not the unsparing ravages of bar- 
barous force. Free-Masonry, notwithstanding, has 
still survived. The attentive Ear receives the sound 
from the instructive Tongue : and the mysteries of 
free -masonry are safely lodged in the repository of 
faithful Breasts. Tools and instruments of architect- 
ure, and symbolic emblems, most expressive, are se- 
lected by the fraternity, to imprint on the mind wise 
and serious truths ; and thus, through a succession of 
ages, are transmitted, unimpaired, the most excellent 
tenets ©f our institution. 

CHARGE at passing to the Degree of Fellow 
Craft. 

Brother — > 

Being passed to the second degree of masonry, 
we congratulate you on your preferment. The in- 
ternal, and not the external qualifications of a man, 
are what masonry regards. As you increase in 
knowledge, you will improve in social intercourse. 

It is unnecessary to recapitulate the duties 
which, as a mason, you are bound to discharge, or 
to enlarge on the necessity of a strict adherence to 
them, as your own experience must have estab- 
lished their value. Our laws and regulations you 
are strenuously to support ; and be always ready 
to assist in seeing them duly executed. You are 
not to palliate, or aggravate, the offences of your 
brethren ; but in the decision of every trespass 


34 


MASONIC CHART. 


against our rules, you are to judge with candour, 
admonish with friendship, and reprehend with jus- 
tice. 

The study of the liberal arts, that valuable 
branch of education, which tends so effectually to 
polish and adorn the mind, is earnestly recommen- 
ded to your consideration ; especially the science 
of geometry, which is established as the basis of 
our art. Geometry, or masonry, orignally synony- 
mous terms, being of a divine and moral nature, 
is enriched with the most useful knowledge : while 
it proves the wonderful properties of nature, it 
demonstrates the more important truths of morality^. 

Your past behaviour and regular deportment 
have merited the honour which we have now con- 
ferred ; and in your new character, it is expected 
that you will conform to the principles of the or- 
der, by steadily persevering in the practice of ev- 
ery commendable virtue. Such is the nature of 
your engagement as a fellow craft, and to these 
duties you are bound by the most sacred ties. 


MASTER MASON’S DEGREE. 


— 


SECTION FIRST. 

The ceremony of raising to the sublime degree 
of Master Mason, is particularly specified, and other 
useful instructions are given in this branch of the 
lecture. 

The following passage of scripture is introduced 
during the ceremonies : 

Eccl. xii. 1 — 7. 

“ Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy 
youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years 
draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in 
them ; while the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the 
stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the 
rain; in the day when the keepers of the house shall 
tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and 
the grinders cease because they are few, and those 
that look out of the windows be darkened ; and the 
doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of 
the grinding is low ; and he shall rise up at the voice 
of the bird, and all the daughters of music shall be 
brought low. Also, when they shall be afraid of that 
which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the 


S6 


MASONIC CHART. 


almond- tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall 
be a burden, and desire shall fail ; because man goeth 
to his long home, and the mourners go about the 
streets : or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden 
bowl be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at 
the cistern. Then shall the dust return to the earth 
as it was ; and the spirit shall return unto God who 
gave it” 

The working tools of a master mason are all the 
implements of masonry indiscriminately, but more 
especially the trowel. 

The trowel is an instrument made use of by 
operative masons, to spread the cement which unites a 
building into one common mass : but we, as free and 
accepted masons, are taught to make use of it for the 
more noble and glorious purpose of spreading the 
cement of brotherly love and affection ; that cement 
which unites us into one sacred band, or society of 
friends and brothers, among whom no contention 
should ever exist, but that noble contention, or rather 
emulation, of who can best work, or best agree. 

SECTION SECOND. 

This section recites the historical traditions of the 
order, and presents to view a finished picture, of the 
utmost consequence to the fraternity. It exemplifies 
an instance of virtue, fortitude, and integrity, unpar- 
alleled in the history of man. 

Prayer at raising a Brother to the sublime Degree of 
Master Mason . 

■ j 

Thou, 0 God ! knowest our down-sitting and our 
up-rising, and understandest our thoughts afar oft'. 
Shield and defend us from the evil intentions of our 
enemies, and support us under the trials and afflictions 


MASTER MASON. 


37 


we are destined to endure, while travelling through 
this vale of tears. Man that is born of a woman, is of 
few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth as a 
flower, and is cut down ; he fleeth also as a shadow, 
and continueth not. Seeing his days are determined, 
the number of his months are with thee, thou hast ap- 
pointed his bounds that he cannot pass : turn from 
him that he may rest, till he shall accomplish his day 
Tor there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it 
will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof 
will not cease. But man dieth and wasteth away; 
yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he P As 
the waters fail from the sea, and the flood decayeth 
and drieth up, so man lieth down, and riseth not up 
till the heavens shall be no more. Yet, O Lord ! have 
compassion on the children of thy creation; adminis- 
ter them comfort in time of trouble, and save them 
with an everlasting salvation. 

So mote it be. Amen. 

SECTION THIRD. 

The third section illustrates certain hieroglyph ical 
emblems, and inculcates many useful lessons, to extend 
knowledge, and promote virtue. In this branch of the 
lecture, many particulars relative to king Solomon’s 
Temple are noticed. 

This famous fabric was supported by fourteen 
hundred and fifty-three columns, and two thousand 
nine hundred and six pilasters ; all hewn from the 
finest Parian marble. There were employed in its 
building, three Grand Masters ; three thousand three 
hundred overseers of the work; eighty thousand Fel- 
low Crafts, or hewers on the mountains and in the 
quarries ; and seventy thousand Entered Apprentices, 
or bearers of burdens. 


4 


38 


MASONIC CHART* 


The Three Steps , 

Usually delineated upon the master’s carpet, are 
emblematical of the three principal stages of human 
life, viz. youth , manhood, and age. In youth , as en- 
tered apprentices, we ought industriously to occupy 
our minds in the attainment of useful knowledge: in 
manhood, as fellow crafts, we should apply our knowl- 
edge to the discharge of our respective duties to God, 
our neighbors, and ourselves ; that so, in age , as master 
masons, we may enjoy the happy reflections consequent 
on a well-spent life, and die in the hope of a glorious 
immortality. 


The Pot of Incense 

Is an emblem of a pure heart, which is always an 
acceptable sacrifice to the Deity ; and, as this glows 
with fervent heat, so should our hearts continually 
glow with gratitude to the great beneficent Author of 
our existence, for the manifold blessings and comforts 
we enjoy. 


The Bee Hive 

Is an emblem of industry, and recommends the 
practice of that virtue to all created beings, from the 
highest seraph in heaven, to the lowest reptile of the 
dust. It teaches us, that as we came into the world 
rational and intelligent beings, so we should ever be 
industrious ones ; never sitting down contented while 
our fellow-creatures around us are in want, when it is 
in our power to relieve them, without inconvenience 
to ourselves. 

When we take a survey of nature, we view man, in 
his infancy, more helpless and indigent than the brutal 
creation: he lies languishing for days, months, and 
years, totally incapable of providing sustenance for 
himself, of guarding against the attack of the wild 
beasts of the field, or sheltering himself from the in- 
clemencies of the weather. It might have pleased the 
Great Creator of heaven and earth, to have made man 


MASTER MASON. 


39 


independent of all other beings ; but, as dependence is 
one of the strongest bonds of society, mankind were 
made dependent on each other for protection and secu- 
rity, as they thereby enjoy better opportunities of ful- 
filling the duties of reciprocal love and friendship. 
Thus was man formed for social and active life, the 
noblest part of the work of God ; and he that will so 
demean himself, as not to be endeavouring to add to 
the common stock of knowledge and understanding, 
may be deemed a drone in the hive of nature, a useless 
member of society, and unworthy of our protection as 
masons. 

The Book of Constitutions , guarded by the Tyler's 
Sword , 

Reminds us that we should be ever watchful and 
guarded in our words and actions, particularly when 
before the enemies of masonry ; ever bearing in re- 
membrance those truly masonic virtues, silence and 
circumspection. 

The Sword , pointing to a Naked Heart , 

Demonstrates that justice will sooner or later over- 
take us ; and although our thoughts, words and actions, 
may be hidden from the eyes of men, yet that 

All-seeing Eye, 

whom the Sun, Moon, and Stars obey, and under 
whose watchful care even Comets perform their 
stupendous revolutions, pervades the inmost recesses 
of the human Heart, and will reward us according 
to our merits. 


The Anchor and Ark 

Are emblems of a well-grounded hope , and a well- 
spent life. They are emblematical of that divine Ark, 
which safely wafts us over this tempestuous sea of 
troubles, and that Anchor which shall safely moor us 


40 


MASONIC CHART. 


in a peaceful harbor, where the wicked cease from 
troubling, and the weary shall find rest. 

The Forty- Seventh Problem of Euclid. 

This was an invention of our ancient friend and 
brother, the great Pythagoras, who, in his travels 
through Asia, Africa, and Europe, was initiated into 
several orders of priesthood, and raised to the sublime 
degree of a master mason. This wise philosopher en- 
riched his mind abundantly in a general knowledge of 
things, and more especially in geometry, or masonry. 
On this subject, he drew out many problems and theo- 
rems ; and among the most distinguished, he erected 
this, which, in the joy of his heart, he called Et^a, 
(Eureka,) in the Grecian language, signifying 1 have 
found it ; and upon the discovery of which, he is said 
to have sacrificed a hecatomb. It teaches masons to 
be general lovers of the arts and sciences. 

The Hour-Glass 

Is an emblem of human life. Behold! how swiftly 
the sands run, and how rapidly our lives are drawing 
to a close ! We cannot without astonishment behold 
the little particles which are contained in this ma- 
chine ; — how they pass away almost imperceptibly ! 
and yet, to our surprise, in the short space of an hour, 
they are all exhausted. Thus wastes man ! To-day, 
he puts forth the tender leaves of hope ; to-morrow, 
blossoms, and bears his blushing honours thick upon 
him ; the next day comes a frost, which nips the shoot; 
and when he thinks his greatness is still aspiring, he 
fails, like autumn leaves, to enrich our mother earth. 

The Scythe 

Is an emblem of time, which cuts the brittle thread 
of life, and launches us into eternity. — Behold ! what 
havock the scythe of time makes among the human 
race ! If by chance we should escape the numerous 
evils incident to childhood and youth, and with health 


MASTER MASON. 


41 


and vigour arrive to the years of manhood ; yet, with- 
al, we must soon be cut down by the all-devouring 
scythe of time, and be gathered into the land where 
our fathers have gone before us. 

Thus we close the explanation of the emblems upon 
the solemn thought of death, which, without revelation, 
is dark and gloomy ; but the Christian is suddenly re- 
vived by the ever green and ever living sprig of Faith 
in the merits of the Lion of the tribe of Judah ; which 
strengthens him, with confidence and composure, to 
look forward to a blessed immortality ; and doubts not, 
but in the glorious morn of the resurrection, his body 
will rise, and become as incorruptible as his soul. 

Then let us imitate the Christian in his virtuous and 
amiable conduct 5 in his unfeigned piety to God ; in 
his inflexible fidelity to his trust; that we may wel- 
come the grim tyrant Death, and receive him as a kind 
messenger sent from our Supreme Grand Master, to 
translate us from this imperfect to that all -perfect, 
glorious, and celestial Lodge above, where the Su- 
preme Architect of the universe presides. 

CHARGE at raising to the sublime degree of 
Master Mason. 

Brother, 

Your zeal for the institution of masonry ; the 
progress you have made in the mystery ; and 
your conformity to our regulations, have pointed 
you out as a proper object of our favor and esteem. 
You are now bound by duty, honour and gratitude, 
to be faithful to your trust ; to support the dignity 
of your character on every occasion ; and to en- 
force, by precept and example, obedience to the 
tenets of the order. 

In the character of a master mason, you are 
4 * 


42 


MASONIC CHAiVf. 


authorized to correct the errors and irregularities 
of your uninformed brethren, and to guard them 
against a breach of fidelity. To preserve the re- 
putation of the fraternity unsullied, must be your 
constant care ; and for this purpose, it is your 
province to recommend to your inferiors, obedi- 
dience and submission ; to your equals, courtesy 
and affability ; to your superiors, kindness and 
condescension. Universal benevolence you are 
always to inculcate; and, by the regularity of 
your own behaviour, afford the best example for 
the conduct of others less informed. The ancient 
land-marks of the order, entrusted to your care, 
you are carefully to preserve ; and never suffer 
them to be infringed, or countenance a deviation 
from the established usages and customs of the 
fraternity. 

Your virtue, honour and reputation, are con- 
cerned in supporting with dignity the character 
you now bear. Let no motive, therefore, make 
you swerve from your duty, violate your vows, or 
betray your trust ; but be true and faithful, and 
imitate the example of that celebrated artist, 
whom you this evening represent. Thus you will 
render yourself deserving of the honour which we 
have conferred, and merit the confidence that we 
have reposed. 


MARK MASTER’S DEGREE. 


- 90 * 5 - 

By the influence of this degree, each operative 
mason, at the erection of King Solomon’s temple, was 
known and distinguished, by the Senior Grand War- 
den. If defects were found, the overseers were enalj 
bled, without difficulty, to ascertain who was the faulty 
workman: so that deficiencies might be remedied, 
without injuring the credit or diminishing the reward 
of the industrious and faithful of the craft. 

CHARGE to be read at Opening . 

“ Wherefore, brethren, lay aside all malice, and 
guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil 
speakings. If so be ye have tasted that the Lord 
is gracious; to whoip coming, as unto a living 
stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of 
God, and precious ; ye also, as living stones, be 
ye built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, 
to offer up sacrifices acceptable to God. 

“ Brethren, this is the will of God, that with 
w ell-doing, ye put to silence the ignoranae of fool- 
ish men. As free, and not as using your liberty 
for a cloak of maliciousness ; but as the servants 
of God. Honour all men ; love the brotherhood ; 
fear God.” 


44 


MASONIC CHART. 


SECTION FIRST. 

The first section explains the manner of opening a 
Mark Master’s Lodge; and recapitulates the mystic 
ceremony of the preparatory circumstance of intro- 
ducing a candidate. The number of artists employed in 
building the Temple is specified ; and the progress 
they made in architecture, is remarked ; and it ends 
with a beautiful display of the manner in which one of 
the principal events originated, which characterizes 
this degree. 

SECTION SECOND. 

In the second section is recited the mode of advanc- 
ing a candidate to this degree — By which the mark 
master is instructed in the origin and history of the 
Degree, and in the indispensable obligations he is un- 
der to stretch forth his assisting hand for the relief of 
an indigent and worthy brother, to a certain specified 
extent. We are here taught to ascribe praise to the 
meritorious, and to dispense rewards to the diligent 
and industrious. 

The following texts of scripture are introduced and 
explained. 


Psalm cxviii. 22. 

“ The stone which the builders refused, is become 

the head stone of the corner.” Matt. xxi. 42. 

“ Did ye never read in the scriptures. The stone which 
the builders rejected, is become the head of the cor- 
ner?” Mark xii. 10. “And have you not read 

this scripture, The stone which the builders rejected, 

is become the head of the corner?” Luke xx. 17. 

“ W hat is this, then, that is written. The stone which 
the builders rejected, is become the head of the cor- 
ner.” 


MARK MASTER. 


45 


Acts iv. 11. 

“ This is the stone which was set at nought of you, 
builders, which is become the head of the corner.” 

Rev. of St. John ii. IT. 

“To him that overcometh, will I give to eat of the 
hidden manna ; and I will give him a white stone , and 
in the stone a new name written, which no man know- 
eth, saving him that receiveth it.” 

Rsv. iii. 13. 

“ He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear.” 

2 Chron. ii. 16. 

“ And we will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much 
as thou shait need ; and we will bring it to thee in 
floats by sea to Joppa, and thou shait carry it up to 
Jerusalem.” 

Ezekiel xliv. 1 and 5. 

“ Then he brought me back the way of the gate of 
the outward sanctuary, which looketh towards the 
east, and it was shut. And the Lord said unto me. 
Son of man, mark well, and behold with thine eyes, 
and hear with thine ears, all that 1 say unto thee, con- 
cerning all the ordinances of the house of the Lord, 
and all the laws thereof ; and mark well the entering 
in of the house, with every going forth of the sanctua- 
ry.” 

The working tools of a mark master, are the chisel 
and mallet. 


46 


MASONIC CHART. 


The Chisel 

Morally demonstrates the advantages of discipline 
and education. The mind, like the diamond in its ori- 
ginal state, is rude and unpolished ; but as the effect 
of the chisel on the external coat soon presents to view 
the latent beauties of the diamond ; so education dis- 
covers the latent virtues of the mind, and draws them 
forth to range the large field of matter and space, to 
display the summit of human knowledge, our duty to 
God and to man. 

The Mallet 

Morally teaches to correct irregularities, and to re- 
duce man to a proper level ; so that, by quiet deport- 
ment, he may, in the school of discipline, learn to be 
content. — What the mallet is to the workman, enlight- 
ened reason is to the passions ; it curbs ambition, it 
depresses envy, it moderates anger, and it encourage 
good dispositions ; whence arises among good masons 
that comely order, 

** Which nothing earthly gives, or can destroy, 

« The soul’s calm sunshine, and the heart-felt joy.” 


CHARGE to he delivered when a candidate is ad- 
vanced to the degree of Marie Master , 
Brother, 

I congratulate you on having been thought 
worthy of being advanced to this honourable de- 
gree of masonry. Permit me to impress it 01* 
your mind, that your assiduity should ever be 
commensurate with your duties, which become 
more and more extensive, as you advance in ma- 


MARK MASTER. 


47 


senry. In the honorable character of mark mas- 
ter mason, it is more particularly your duty to en- 
deavour to let your conduct in the lodge, and 
among your brethren, be such as may stand the 
test of the Grand Overseer’s square ; that you 
may not, like the unfinished and imperfect work 
of the negligent and unfaithful of former times, 
be rejected and thrown aside, as unfit for that 
spiritual building, that house not made with hands, 
eternal in the heavens. 

While such is your conduct, should misfortunes 
assail you, should friends forsake you, should envy 
traduce your good name, and malice persecute 
you ; yet may you have confidence, that among 
mark master masons you will find friends who will 
administer relief to your distresses, and comfort 
your afflictions ; ever bearing in mind, as a conso- 
lation under all the frowns of fortune, and as an 
encouragement to hope for better prospects, that 
the stone which the builders rejected , [possessing 
merits to them unknown,] became the chief stone 
of the corner. 

The following Song is sung previous to closing. 


48 


MASONIC CHART. 


MARK MASTER’S SONG. 





work in-spect, For the Chief Ar-chi-tect ; If there be 

:fe: 



SZMZZW 




o 

work in-spect, For the Chief Ar-chi-tect ; If there be 


m 


E 


:£ 


#-i* 


MARK MASTER. 


49 


fkr 


|~ 

m— 



•- 



r 

jL 

? P 




J 



■ 

1 

n * • I 

I 

m J 










P • 1 

F 

<37 r 






1 - f 

A 

no d 

e-fect, He will ap - prove. 

3 


} 


m - 

•J 

r 

eH 

9 — 

-m * - 





m 

i • 

© # • J 

T 

w 






* GT 

• A 

a 







r 

• 1 

r 

no d 

e-fect. He 

will ap - prove. 

iv ; 



• J 


LZi_ 

7 ' 


- ¥ 


■ 

1 *4 

r 



r 



rj* *-] 

p 


7 ' 

. -P=?t 

i 




L 


You who have pass’d the square, 
For jour rewards prepare, 

Join heart and hand; 
Each with his mark in view , 
March with the just and true ; 
Wages to you are due. 

At your command. 

Hiram, the widow’s son, 

Sent unto Solomon 

Our great key-stone ; 
On it appears the name 
Which raises high the fame 
Of all to whom the same 
Is truly known. 

Now to the westward move, 
Where, full of strength and love, 
Hiram doth stand ; 

But if impostors are 
Mix’d with the worthy there, 
Caution them to beware 

Of the right hand. 

Now to the praise of those 
Who triumph’d o’er the foes 
Of mason’s art ; 


50 


MASONIC CHART. 


To the praiseworthy three, 

Who founded this degree ; 

May all their virtues be 

Deep in our hearts. 

Previous to closing, the following Parable is re- 
cited. 

Matthew xx. 1 — 16. 

“ For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that 
is an householder, which went out early in the morn- 
ing to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he 
had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he 
sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about 
the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the 
market place, and said unto them. Go ye also into the 
vineyard, and whatsoever is right, I will give you. — 
And they went their way. And again he went out 
about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And 
about the eleventh hour, he went out and found others 
standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye 
here all the day idle ? They say unto him, Because 
no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye 
also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right, that 
shall ye receive. So, when even was come, the lord 
of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the la- 
bourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the 
last unto the first. And when they came, that were 
hired about the eleventh hour, they received every 
man a penny. But when the first came, they sup- 
posed that they should have received more, and they 
likewise received every man a penny. And when 
they received it, they murmured against the good man 
of the house, saying, These last have wrought but one 


MARK MASTER. 


51 


hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which 
have borne the burden and heat of the day. But he 
answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no 
wrong ; didst thou not agree with me for a penny ? 
Take that thine is, and go thy way ; I will give unto 
this last even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to 
do what I will with my own ? Is thine eye evil, be- 
cause I am good P So the last shall be first, and the 
first last: for many be called, but few chosen.” 


PRESENT, or PAST MASTER’S 
DEGREE. 




THIS degree treats of the government of our 
society ; the disposition of our rulers ; and illustrates 
their requisite qualifications. It includes the ceremo- 
ny of opening and closing lodges in the several pre- 
ceding degrees : it comprehends the ceremonies and 
forms of installations, consecrations, laying the foun- 
dation stones of public buildings, and also at dedica- 
tions and at funerals, by a variety of particulars ex- 
planatory of those ceremonies. 

SECTION FIRST. 

This section contains the form of a petition for let- 
ters of dispensation, or a warrant of constitution for a 
lodge, empowering them to work. The ceremonies of 
Constitution and Consecration are considered, with 
the form of a Grand Procession. 

Form of Petition for a Charter or Warrant to estab- 
lish anew Lodge. 

To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State 

of — the petitioners hereof humbly shew, that 

they are ancient , free , and accepted Master Masons. 
Having the prosperity of the Fraternity at heart, they 
are willing to exert their best endeavors to promote 
and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry. 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


53 


For the convenience of their respective dwellings, 
and for other good reasons, they are desirous of form- 
ing a new Lodge in the town of , to be named 

. In consequence of this desire, and for the good 

of the craft, they pray for a Charter , or Warranty to 
empower them to assemble as a legal Lodge, to dis- 
charge the duties of masonry, in the several degrees 
of Entered Apprentice, Fellow-Craft, and Master Ma- 
son, in a regular and constitutional manner, according 
to the ancient form of the fraternity, and the laws 
and regulations of the Grand Lodge. That they have 
nominated and do recommend A. B. to be the first 
master, C. D. to be the first senior warden, and E. F. 
to be the first junior warden of said Lodge: that, if 
the prayer of the petition should be granted, they 
promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional 
laws, rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge. 

This petition must be signed by at least seven reg- 
ular masons, and recommended by some lodge contig- 
uous to the place where the new lodge is to be held. 
It must be delivered to the Grand Secretary, whose 
duty it is to lay it before the Grand Lodge. 

After a charter is granted by the Grand Lodge, the 
Grand Master appoints a day and hour for constitu- 
ting and consecrating the new lodge, and for install- 
ing the master, wardens, and other officers. The 
Grand Master has power to appoint some worthy Past 
Master , with full power to consecrate, constitute, and 
instal the petitioners. 

Ceremony of Constitution and Consecration. 

On the day and hour appointed, the Grand Master 
and his officers meet in a convenient room near to the 
Lodge to be constituted, and open in the third degree. 

5 * 


54 


MASONIC CHART. 


After the officers in the new lodge are examined, the)' 
send a messenger to the Grand Master, with the fol- 
lowing message : viz. 

Most Worshipful, 

The officers and brethren of Lodge, who are 

now assembled at — — — , have instructed me to in- 
form you, that the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge was 
pleased to grant them a Charter, authorizing them to 
form and open a lodge of free and accepted masons in 

the town of : They are now desirous that 

their lodge should be consecrated, and their officers 
installed in due and ancient form ; for which purpose 
they are now met, and await the pleasure of the Most 
Worshipful Grand Master. 

When notice is given, the Grand Lodge walk in 
procession to the hall of the new Lodge. When the 
Grand Master enters, the grand honours are given by 
the new lodge ; the officers of which resign their seats 
to the grand officers, and take their several stations on 
the left. 

The necessary cautions are given ; and all, except- 
ing Present or Past Masters of lodges, are re- 
quested to retire until, the Master of the new lodge 
is inducted into the Oriental Chair of Solomon. He 
is then bound to the faithful performance of his 
trust, and invested with the characteristics of the 
chair. 

Upon due notice, the Grand Marshal re-conducts 
the brethren into the hall \ and all take their places, 
except the members of the new lodge, who form a 
procession on one side of the hall. As they advance, 
the Grand Master addresses them. 

“ Brethren , behold your Master .” 

They make the proper salutations as they pass. 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


55 


A grand procession is then formed, in the following 
order ; viz. 

Tyler with a drawn Sword ; 

Two Stewards with white Rods ; 

Entered Apprentices ; 

Fellow- Crafts ; 

Master Masons ; 

Stewards ; 

& Junior Deacons ; 

3 Senior Deacons ; 

SI Secretaries ; 

Treasurers ; 

Past Wardens ; 

Junior Wardens ; 

Senior Wardens ; 

Past Masters ; 

Mark Masters ; 

Royal Arch Masons ; 

Select Masters ; 

Knights Templars ; 

Masters of Lodges. 

The New Lodge . 

Tyler with a drawn Sword ; 

Stewards with white Rods ; 

Entered Apprentices ; 

Fellow-Crafts ; 

Master Masons ; 

Junior and Senior Deacons ; 

Secretary and Treasurer ; 

Two Brethren, carrying the Flooring * or Lodge y 


Carpet, 


56 


MASONIC CHART. 


Junior and Senior Wardens ; 

The Holy Writings, carried by the oldest or some 
[ suitable member, not in office ; 

The W. Master : 

Music. 

The Grand Lodge. 

Grand Tyler with drawn Sword ; 

Grand Stewards with white Rods ; 

A Brother carrying a Golden Vessel of Corn ;* 
Two Brethren, carrying the Silver Vessels, one of 
| Wine, the other of Oil ; 

Grand Secretaries ; 

Grand Treasurers ; 

A burning Taper, borne by a Past Master ; 

A Past Master bearing the Holy Writings, Square and 
Compasses, supported by two Stewards 
with white Rods ; of 

Two burning Tapers, borne by two Past Masters ; 
The Tuscan, and Composite Orders ; 

The Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian Orders ; 

Past Grand Wardens ; 

Past Deputy Grand Masters ; 

2 Past Grand Masters ; 

E The Globes ; 

Clergy and Orator ; 

II. W. Junior and Senior Grand Wardens ; 

R. W. Deputy Grand Master ; 

The Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of 
Constitutions ; 

'The M. W. Grand Master : 

* Wheat 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


57 


The Grand Deacons, on a line seven feet apart, on the 
right and left of the Grand Master, with black rods ; 

Grand Sword Bearer, with a drawn Sword ; 

Two Stewards, with white rods. 

The Marshals conduct the procession to the church, 
or house, where the services are to be performed. 
When the front of the procession arrives at the door, 
they halt, open to the right and left, and face inward ; 
while the Grand Master and others, in succession, 
pass through and enter the house. 

A platform is erected in front of the pulpit, and 
provided with seats for the accommodation of the 
Grand Officers. 

The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and Book 
of Constitutions, are placed upon a table in front of 
the Grand Master : the flooring is then spread in the 
centre, upon the platform, covered with white satin or 
linen, and encompassed by the three tapers, and the 
vessels of corn , wine y and oil. 

SERVICES. 

1. A piece of Music. 

2. Prayer. 

3. An Oration. 

4. A piece of Music. 

5. The Grand Marshal forms the officers and mem 
bers of the new Lodge in front of the Grand Master. 
The Deputy Grand Master addresses the Grand Mas- 
ter as follows : 

Most W^orshipful, 

A number of brethren, duly instructed in the mys- 
teries of Masonry, having assembled together at stated 
periods, by virtue of a dispensation granted them for 
that purpose, do now desire to be constituted into a 
regular lodge , agreeably to the ancient usages and cus- 
toms of the fraternity. 


58 


MASONIC CHART. 


The dispensation and records are’presented to the 
Grand Master, who examines the records, and, if found 
correct, proclaims : 

The records appear to be correct, and are approved. 
Upon due deliberation, the Grand Lodge have granted 
the brethren of this new Lodge a charter, establishing 
and confirming them in the rights and privileges of a 
regular constituted Lodge ; which the Grand Secreta- 
ry will now read. 

After the charter is read, the Grand Master then 
says. 

We shall now proceed, according to ancient usage, 
to constitute these brethren into a regular Lodge. 

Whereupon the several officers of the new Lodge 
deliver up their jewels and badges to their Master, 
who presents them, with his own, to the Deputy Grand 
Master ; and he to the Grand Master. 

The Deputy Grand Master presents the Master 
Elect to the Grand Master, saying. 

Most Worshipful, 

I present you Brother , whom the members 

of the Lodge, now to be constituted, have chosen for 
their Master. 

The Grand Master asks them if they remain satis- 
fied with their choice. [ They bow in token of as sent. ] 

The Master elect then presents, severally, his war- 
dens and other officers, naming them and their respec- 
tive offices. The Grand Master asks the brethren if 
they remain satisfied with each and all of them. [ They, 
bow as before.] 

The officers and members of the new Lodge form in 
front of the Grand Master ; and the business of Con- 
secration commences with solemn music. 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER, 


59 


6. Ceremony of Consecration. 

The Grand Master, attended bj the Grand Officers 
and the Grand Chaplain, form themselves in order 
round the lodge — all devoutly kneeling. 

7. A piece of solemn music is performed while the 
Lodge is uncovered. 

After which, the first clause of the Consecration 
Prayer is rehearsed, which is follows : 

“ Great Architect of the universe ! Maker and 
Ruler of all worlds ! deign, from thy celestial tem- 
ple, from realms of light and glory, to bless us in 
all the purposes of our present assembly ! We 
humbly invoke thee to give us at this, and at all 
times, wisdom, in all our doings, strength of mind 
in all our difficulties, and the beauty of harmony 
in all our communications ! Permit us, O thou 
Author of light and life, great Source of love and 
happiness, to erect this Lodge, and now solemnly 
to consecrate it to the honour of thy glory ! 

“ Glory be to God on high.” 

[Response by the brethren.] 

44 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever 
shall be ; world without end. Amen.” 

The Deputy Grand Master takes the Golden Vessel 
of Corn, and the Senior and Junior Grand Wardens 
take the Silver Vessels of Wine and Oil, and sprinkle 
the elements of consecration upon the Lodge. 

[The Grand Chaplain then continues :] 

44 Grant, O Lord our God, that those who are 
now about to be invested with the government of 
this Lodge, may be endued with wisdom to in- 


60 


MASONIC CHART. 


struct their brethren in all their duties. May bro 
iherly love , relief, and truth , always prevail among 
the members of this Lodge ; and may this bond of 
anion continue to strengthen the Lodges through- 
out the world ! 

“ Bless all our brethren, wherever dispersed ; 
and grant speedy relief to all who are either op- 
pressed or distressed. 

“ We affectionately commend to thee, all the 
members of thy whole family. May they increase 
in grace, in the knowledge of thee, and in the love 
of each other. 

“ Finally : may we finish all our work here be- 
low, with thy approbation ; and then have our 
transition from this earthly abode to thy heavenly 
temple above, there to enjoy light, glory and bliss, 
ineffable and eternal ! 

“ Glory be to God on high.’* 

[Response by the brethren.] 

“ As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever 
shall be. So mote it be. Amen.” 

8. A piece of solemn music is performed while the 
Lodge is covered. 

9. The Grand Chaplain then dedicates the Lodge 
in the following terms : 

“To the memory of the HOLY ST. JOHNS, 
we dedicate this Lodge. May every brother re- 
vere their character, and imitate their virtues. 

“ Glory be to God on high.” 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


61 


[Response.] 

“ As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever 
shall be, world without end. 

“ So mote it be. Amen.” 

10. A piece of music is performed, while the breth- 
ren of the new Lodge advance in procession to salute 
the Grand Lodge, with their hands crossed upon their 
breasts, and bowing as they pass. They then take 
their places as they were. 

11. The Grand Master then rises, and constitutes 

the new Lodge in the form following : • 

“ In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand 
Lodge, I now constitute and form you, my belov- 
ed brethren, into a regular Lodge of free and ac- 
cepted Masons. From henceforth I empower you 
to meet as a regular lodge, constituted in conform- 
ity to the rites of our order, and the charges of our 
ancient and honourable fraternity ; — and may the 
Supreme Architect of the universe prosper, direct 
and counsel you, in all your doings. 

[Response.] 

u So mote it be. Amen.” 

SECTION SECOND. 

Ceremony of Installation . 

The Grand Master, or presiding officer, addresses 
the Master Elect in the words following, viz. 

Brother, 

Previous to your investiture, it is necessary that 
you should signify your assent to those ancient 


62 


MASONIC OH ART. 


charges and regulations, which point out the duty 
of a Master of a Lodge. 

I. You agree to be a good man and true, and 
strictly to obey the moral law. 

II. You agree to be a peaceable subject, and 
cheerfully to conform to the laws of the country 
in which yOu reside. 

III. You promise not to be concerned in plots 
and conspiracies against government ; but patient- 
ly to submit to the decisions of the supreme legis- 
lature. 

IV. You agree to pay a proper respect to the 
civil magistrates, to work diligently, live credita- 
bly, and act honorably by all men. 

V. You agree to hold in veneration, the origin- 
al rules and patrons of the order of masonry, and 
their regular successors, supreme and subordinate, 
according to their stations ; and to submit to the 
awards and resolutions of your brethren, when 
convened, in every case consistent with the con- 
stitutions of the order. 

VI. You agree to avoid private piques and 
quarrels, and to guard against intemperance and 
excess. 

VII. You agree to be cautious in carriage and 
behaviour, courteous to your brethren, and faithful 
td your lodge. 

VIII. You promise to respect genuine brethren, 
and to discountenance impostors, and all dissenters 
from the original plan of masonry. 


SHE SENT OR PAST MASTER. Co 

IX. You agree to promote the general good of 
society, to cultivate the social virtges, and to prop- 
agate the knowledge of the art. 

X. You promise to pay homage to the Grand 
Master for the time being, and to his officers when 
duly installed ; and strictly to conform to every 
edict of the Grand Lodge, or general assembly of 
masons, that is not subversive of the principles and 
groundwork of masonry. 

XL You admit, that it is not in the power of 
any men, or body of men, to make innovations in 
the body of masonry. 

XII. You promise a regular attendance on the 
committees and communications of the Grand 
Lodge, on receiving proper notice, and to pay 
attention to all the duties of masonry, on conven- 
ient occasions. 

XIII. You admit, that no new lodge shall be 
formed without permission of the Grand Lodge : 
and that no countenance be given to an irregular 
lodge, or to any person clandestinely initiated 
therein, being contrary to the ancient charges of 
the order. 

XIV. You admit, that no person can be regu- 
larly made a mason in, or admitted a member of, 
any regular lodge, without previous notice, and 
due inquiry into his character. 

XV. You agree that no visiters shall be re- 
ceived into your lodge, without due examination, 


64 


MASONIC CHART. 


and producing proper vouchers of their having 
been initiated into a regular lodge. 

These are the regulations of free and accepted ma- 
sons. 

The presiding officer then addresses the Master as 
follows : 

Do you submit to these charges, and promise 
to support these regulations, as masters have done 
in all ages before you ? 

The Master is to answer, 1 do. 

The presiding officer then addresses him : 

Brother A. B. 

In consequence of your cheerful conformity to 
the charges and regulations of the order, you are 
now to be installed Master of this # lodge, in full 
confidence of your care, skill, and capacity to 
govern the same. 

[The new master is then regularly invested with 
the insignia of his office, and the furniture and imple- 
ments of his lodge.] 

The vai-ipus implements of the profession are 
emblematical of our conduct in life, and upon this 
occasion are carefully enumerated. 

The Holy Writings , that great light in masonry, 
will guide you to all truth : it will direct your paths 
to the temple of happiness, and point out to you 
the whole duty of man. 

* It this lodge is installed for the first time, it is called . 11 Tfni 
neic lodge " 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


65 


The Square teaches us to regulate our actions 
by rule and line, and harmonize our conduct by 
the principles of morality and virtue. 

The Compasses teach us to limit our desires in 
every station ; that, rising to eminence by merit, 
we may live respected, and die regretted. 

The Rule directs that we should punctually ob- 
serve our duty ; press forward in the path of vir- 
tue, and, neither inclining to the right nor to the 
left, in all our actions have (eternity) in view. 

The Line teaches the criterion of moral recti- 
tude, to avoid dissimulation in conversation and 
action, and to direct our steps to the path which 
leads to a glorious immortality. 

The Book of Constitutions , you are to search at 
all times . Cause it to be read in your lodge, that 
none may pretend ignorance of the excellent pre- 
cepts it enjoins. 

You will also receive in charge the By-Laws 
of your lodge, which you are to see carefully and 
punctually executed. 

CHARGE upon the Installation of the Master of 
a Lodge. 

Worshipful Master : 

Being appointed Master of this lodge, you can- 
not be insensible of the obligations which devolve 
on you, as their head ; nor of your responsibility 
for the faithful discharge of the important duties 
annexed to your appointment, 

6 * 


$6 


MASONIC CHART. 


The honour, reputation, and usefulness of your 
lodge, will materially depend on the skill and as- 
siduity with which you manage its concerns ; 
while the happiness of its members will be gene- 
rally promoted, in proportion to the zeal and abil- 
ity with which you propagate the genuine princi- 
ples of our institution. 

For a pattern of imitation, consider the great 
luminary of nature, which, rising in the East, reg- 
ularly diffuses light and lustre to all within its 
circle. In like manner, it is your province to 
spread and communicate light and instruction to 
the brethren of your lodge. Forcibly impress up- 
on them the dignity and high importance of ma- 
sonry, and seriously admonish them never to dis- 
grace it. Charge them to practice out of the lodge, 
those duties which are taught in it ; and by amia 1 * 
ble, discreet, and virtuous conduct, to convince 
mankind of the goodness of the institutition ; so 
that, when any one is said to be a member of it, 
the world may know that he is one to whom the 
burthened heart may pour out its sorrows ; to 
whom distress may prefer its suit ; whose hand is 
guided by justice, and his heart expanded by be- 
nevolence. In short, by a diligent observance of 
the by-laws of your lodge, the constitutions of ma- 
sonry, and, above all, the Holy Scriptures, which 
are given as a rule and guide to your faith, you 
will be enabled to acquit yourself with honour and 


present or past master. 


67 


reputation, and lay up a crown of rejoicing , which 
shall continue when time shall be no more. 

The subordinate officers are then severally invested 
by the presiding officer, who delivers each of them a 
short Charge, as follows ; viz. 

The Senior Warden . 

Brother C. D. 

You are appointed Senior Warden of this lodge, 
and are now invested with the ensign of your office. 

The Level demonstrates that we are descended 
from the same stock, partake of the same nature, 
and share the same hope ; and though distinctions 
among men are necessary to preserve subordina- 
tion, yet no eminence of station should make us 
forget that we are brethren : for he who is placed 
on the lowest spoke of fortune’s wheel, may be 
entitled to our regard ; because a time will come, 
and the wisest knows not how soon, when all dis- 
tinction, but that of goodness, shall cease ; and 
death, the grand leveller of human greatness, re- 
duce us to the same state. 

Your regular attendance on our stated meetings, 
is essentially necessary. In the absence of the 
master, you are to govern this lodge ; in his pres- 
ence, you are to assist him in the government of 
it. I firmly rely on your knowledge of masonry, 
and attachment to the lodge, for the faithful dis- 
charge of the duties of this important trust. — 
Look well to the W est ! 


S8 


MASONIC CHART. 


The Junior Warden. 

Brother E. F. 

You are appointed Junior Warden of this lodge, 
and are now invested with the badge of your office. 

The Plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in 
our several stations ; to hold the scales of justice 
in equal poise ; to observe the just medium be- 
tween intemperance and pleasure ; and to make 
our passions and prejudices coincide with the line 
of our duty. 

To you is committed the superintendance of 
the craft, during the hours of refreshment : — it is 
therefore indispensably necessary, that you should 
not only be temperate and discreet, in the indul- 
gence of your own inclinations, but carefully ob- 
serve that none of the craft be suffered to convert 
the purposes of refreshment into intemperance 
and excess. 

Your regular and punctual attendance is partic- 
ularly requested ; and I have no doubt that you 
will faithfully execute the duty which you owe to 

your present appointment. Look well to the 

South ! 

The Treasurer . 

Brother G. H. 

You are appointed Treasurer of this lodge. It 
is your duty to receive all monies from the hands 
of the Secretary, make due entries of the same, 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


69 


and pay them out by order of the Worshipful 
Master and the consent of the lodge. 

I trust your regard for the fraternity will prompt 
you to the faithful discharge of the duties of your 
office. 

The Secretary. 

Brother J. K. 

You are appointed Secretary of this lodge. It 
is your duty to observe all the proceedings of the 
lodge ; make a fair record of all things proper to 
be written ; to receive all monies due the lodge, 
and pay them over to the Treasurer, and take his 
receipt for the same. 

Your good inclination to masonry and this lodge, 
I hope, will induce you to discharge your office 
with fidelity ; and by so doing, you will merit the 
esteem and applause of your brethren. 

Senior and Junior Deacons . 

Brothers L. M. and N. O. 

You are appointed Deacons of this lodge. To 
you, with such assistance as may be necessary, is 
entrusted the examination of visitors. — It is also 
your province to attend on the master and war- 
dens, and to act as their proxies in the active du- 
ties of the lodge ; such as in the reception of can- 
didates into the different degrees of masonry, and 
in the immediate practice of our rites. The Square 
$nd Compasses, as badges of your office, I trust to 


MASONIC CHAliX* 


:q 

your care, not doubting your vigilance and atten- 
tion. 

The Stewards . 

Brothers P. Q. and R. S. 

You are appointed Stewards of this lodge. The 
duties of your office are, to assist in the collection 
of dues and subscriptions ; to keep an account of 
the lodge expenses ; to see that the tables are pro- 
perly furnished at refreshment, and that every 
brother is suitably provided for ; and generally to 
assist the deacons and other officers in performing 
their duties. 

Your regular and early attendance will afford 
the best proof of your zeal and attachment to the 
lodge. 

The Tyler. 

Brother : 

You are appointed Tyler of this lodge ; and I 
invest you with the implement of your office. As 
the sword is placed in the hands of the Tyler, to 
enable him effectually to guard against the ap- 
proach of cowans and evesdroppers, and suffer 
none to pass or repass but such as are duly quali- 
fied ; so it should morally serve as a constant ad- 
monition to us, to set a guard at the entrance of 
our thoughts ; to place a watch at the door of our 
lips ; to post a centinel at the avenue of our ac- 
tions : thereby excluding every unqualified amd 


RUE SENT OK PAST I^ASTEH. 7f 

run worthy thought, word and deed ; and preserving 
consciences void of offence towards God and to- 
wards man. 

Your early and punctual attendance will afford 
the best proof of your zeal for the institution. 

CHARGE to the Brethren of the Lodge. 

Such is the nature of our constitution, that as 
some must of necessity rule and teach, so others 
must of course learn to submit and obey. Humil- 
ity in both is an essential duty. The officers who 
are appointed to govern your lodge, are sufficient- 
ly conversant with the rules of propriety, and the 
laws of the institution, to avoid exceeding the 
powers with which they are entrusted ; and you 
are of too generous dispositions to envy their pre- 
ferment. I therefore trust that you will have but 
one aim, to please each other, and unite in the 
grand design of being happy, and communicating 
happiness. 

Finally, my brethren, as this association has 
been formed and perfected with so much unanimity 
and concord, in w hich we greatly rejoice, so may 
it long continue. May you long enjoy every sat- 
isfaction and delight which disinterested friendship 
can afford. May kindness and brotherly affection 
distinguish your conduct, as men, and as masons. 
Within your peaceful walls, may your children’s 
children celebrate with joy and gratitude, the 


72 


MASONIC CHART. 


transactions of this auspicious solemnity. And 
may the tenets of our profession be transmitted 
through your lodge, pure and unimpaired, from 
generation to generation. 

12. The Grand Marshal then proclaims the new 
Lodge in the following manner, viz : 

In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand 

Lodge of the State of , I proclaim this new 

Lodge by the name of Lodge, No — , to be 

legally constituted, consecrated, and the officers 
thereof duly installed. 

13. A piece of Music is then performed. 

14. Benediction. 

The procession is then formed, and returns in due 
form to the hall whence it set out. 

The W. Master having been previously inducted 
into the Oriental Chair of Solomon, all but master 
masons are caused to retire. 

A procession is then formed, and passes three times 
round the hall ; and upon passing the master, pays 
him due homage by the usual honours, in the different 
degrees. 

During the procession passing round, the following 
song is sung. 

HAIL MASONRY divine! 

Glory of ages shine ; 

Long may’st thou reign ; 

Where’er thy lodges stand, 

May they have great; command 
And always grace the land. 

Thou Art divine; 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 75 

Great fabrics still arise, 

And grace the azure skies; 

Great are thy schemes : 

Matchless, beyond compare; 

No art with thee can share, 

Thou Art divine. 

Hiram, the architect. 

Did all the craft direct 
How they should build : 

Soi’mon, great Israel’s king, 

Did mighty blessings bring, 

And left us room to sing, 

Hail, royal Art ! 

The G-and Master then directs the Grand Marshal 
to form the procession ; when the Grand Lodge walk 
to their own hall, and both Lodges are closed in due 
form. 



SECTION THIRD. 

This section contains the ceremony observed on 
laying the Foundation Stones of Public Structures. 

This ceremony is conducted by the M. W. Grand 
Master and his officers, assisted by such officers and 
members of subordinate Lodges, as can conveniently 
attend. The chief magistrate, and other civil officers 
of the place where the building is to be erected, also 
generally attend on the occasion. 

At the time appointed, the Grand Lodge is con* 
vened in some suitable place. A band of martial music 
is provided, and the brethren appear in the insignia of 
the order. 

The Lodge is then opened by the Grand Master, 
and the rules for regulating the procession are read 
by the Grand Secretary. The Lodge is then adjourn- 
ed ; after which, the procession sets out in due form , 
in the following order: 


74 


MASONIC CHART. 


Procession at laying Foundation Stones, 

Two Tylers with drawn Swords; 

Tyler of the older Lodge with do. ; 

Two Stewards of the older Lodge ; 

Entered Apprentices ; 

Fellow Crafts ; 

Master Masons ; 

Past Secretaries ; 

-2 Past Treasurers; 

•gi Past Junior Wardens ; 

^ Past Senior W ardens ; 

Mark Masters; 

Past Masters; 

Royal Arch Masons ; 

Select Masters; 

Knights Templars ; 

Masters ; 

Music ; 

Grand Tyler with a drawn Sword ; 

Grand Stewards with white Rods ; 

A Past Master with a Golden Vessel containing Corn ; 
Principal Architect, with Square, Level and Plumb; 
Two Past Masters with Silver Vessels, one containing 
Wine, and the other Oil ; 

Grand Secretary and Treasurer; 

The Five Orders ; 

One large Light borne by a Past Master ; 

The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, borne by a 
Master of a Lodge, supported by two Stewards" 
on the right and left ; 

Two large Lights, borne by two Past Masters ; 
Grand Chaplain ; 

Clergy and Orator; 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


75 


Grand Wardens; 

Deputy Grand Master ; 

The Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book 
of Constitutions on a velvet cushion ; 

Grand Deacons with black Rods, on a line seven 
feet apart ; 

Grand Master; 

Two Stewards with white Rods ; 

Grand Sword-Bearer with drawn Sword. 

A Triumphal Arch is usually erected at the place 
where the ceremony is to be performed. The proces- 
sion passes through the arch ; and the brethren repair- 
ing to their stands, the Grand Master and his officers 
take their places on a temporary platform, covered 
with carpet. The Grand Master commands silence. 
An Ode on Masonry is sung; after which, the neces- 
sary preparations are made for laying the stone, on 
whicn is engraved the year of masonry, the name of 
the Grand Master, &c. &c. 

The stone is raised up, by means of an engine erect- 
ed for that purpose, and the Grand Chaplain or Orator 
repeats a short prayer. 

The Grand Treasurer then, by the Grand Master’s 
command, places under the stone various sorts of coin 
and medals of the present age. Solemn music is in- 
troduced, and the stone is let down into its place. 

The principal Architect then presents the working 
tools to the Grand Master, who applies the plumb , 
square , and level , to the stone, in their proper posi- 
tions, and pronounces it to be well formed, true, 
and trusty. 

The Golden and Silver Vessels are next brought to 
the table, and delivered ; the former to the Deputy 
Grand Master, and the latter to the Grand Wardens, 
who successively present them to the Grand Master ; 
and he, according to ancient ceremony, pours the corn, 
the wine, and the oil, which they contain, on the stone,; 
saying, 


76 


MASONIC CHART. 


“ May the all-bounteous Author of Nature bless 
the inhabitants of this place with all the necessa- 
ries, conveniences and comforts of life ; assist in 
the erection and completion of this building ; pro- 
tect the workmen against every accident, and long 
preserve this structure from decay : and grant to 
us all, a supply of the CORN of nourishment , the 
WINE of refreshment , and the oil of joy ! 

“ So mote it be. Amen.” 

He then strikes the stone thrice with the mallet ; 
and the public grand honours of Masonry are given . 
The Grand Master then delivers over to the Architect 
the various implements of architecture, entrusting him 
with the superintendance and direction of the work ; 
after which, he re-ascends the platform, and an Ora- 
tion suitable to the occasion is delivered. 

A voluntary Collection is made for the needy work- 
men ; and the sum collected is placed upon the stone 
by the Grand Treasurer. 

A suitable Song in honour of masonry concludes the 
ceremony ; after which, the procession returns to the 
place whence it set out, and the Lodge is closed in 
due form. 

SECTION FOURTH. 

The fourth section contains the ceremony observed 
at the Dedication of the Free-Masons’ Halls. 

On the day appointed, the Grand Master and his 
officers, accompanied by the members of the Grand 
Lodge, meet in a convenient room near the place 
where the ceremony is to be performed, and open in 
due and ample form , in the third degree of masonry. 

The Master of the Lodge to which the Hall to be 
dedicated belongs, being present, addresses the Grand 
Master, as follows r 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


V 


Most Worshipful, 

The brethren of Lodge, being animated 

with a desire of promoting the honour and inter- 
est of the craft, have, at great pains and expense, 
erected a Masonic Hall, for their convenience and 
accommodation. They are desirous that the same 
should be examined by the M. W. Grand Lodge ; 
and if it should meet their approbation, that it 
should be solemnly dedicated to masonic purposes, 
agreeably to ancient form. 

The Grand Master then directs the Grand Marshal 
to form the procession, when they move forward to 
the Hall to be dedicated. On entering, the music 
will continue while the procession marches three times 
round the hall. 

The lodge, or flooring, is then placed in the centre ; 
and the Grand Master having taken the chair, under 
a canopy of state, the Grand Officers, and the Mas- 
ters and Wardens of the Lodges, repair to the places 
previously prepared for their reception. The three 
Lights, and the Gold and Silver Pitchers, with the 
corn, wine and oil, are placed round the Lodge, at the 
head of which stands the Altar, with the Holy Bible 
open, and the Square and Compasses laid thereon, 
with the Charter, Book of Constitutions, and By- 
Laws. 

An Anthem is sung, and an Exordium on Masonry 
given ; after which, the Architect addresses the Grand 
Master as follows: 

Most Worshipful, 

Having been entrusted with the superintend- 
ence and management of the workmen employed 

in the construction of this edifice; and having, 
7 * 


78 


MASONIC CHART. 


according to the best of my ability, accomplished 
the task assigned me ; I now return my thanks 
for the honour of this appointment, and beg leave 
to surrender up the implements which were com- 
mitted to my care, when the foundation of this 
fabric was laid ; humbly hoping, that the exertions 
which have been made on this occacion, will be 
crowned with your approbation, and that of the 
Most W orshipful Grand Lodge. 

To which the Grand Master makes the following 
reply : 

Brother Architect, 

The skill and fidelity displayed in the execu r 
tion of the trust reposed in you, at the commence- 
ment of this undertaking, have secured the entire 
approbation of the Grand Lodge ; and they sin- 
cerely pray, that this edifice may continue a last- 
ing monument of the taste, spirit, and liberality of 
its founders. 

An Ode in honour of masonry is sung, accompanied 
with instrumental music. 

The Deputy Grand Master then rises, and says : 

Most Worshipful, 

The hall in which we are now assembled, and 
the plan upon which it has been constructed, hav- 
ing met with your approbation, it is the desire of 
the fraternity that it should now be dedicated* ac- 
cording to ancient form and usage. 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


79 


Whereupon the Grand Master requests all to retire, 
but such as are Master Masons. A procession is then 
formed in the following order, viz. 

Grand Sword-Bearer ; 

A Past Master, with a Light; 

A Past Master, with Bible, Square, and Compasses, 
on a velvet cushion ; 

Two Past Masters, each with a Light; 

Grand Secretary and Treasurer, with Emblems; 

Grand Junior Warden, with Pitcher of Corn; 

Grand Senior Warden, with Pitcher of Wine ; 

Deputy Grand Master, with Pitcher of Oil ; 

Grand Master; 

Two Stewards with Rods. 

All the other brethren keep their places, and assist 
in performing an Ode, which continues during the pro- 
cession, excepting only at the intervals of dedication. 
The Lodge being uncovered, the first time passing 
round it, the Junior Grand Warden presents the pitch- 
er of Corn to the Grand Master, who pours it out upon, 
the Lodge, at the same time pronouncing, 

“ In the name of the Great Jehovah, to whom 
be all honour and glory, I do solemnly dedicate 
this Hall to MASONRY.” 

The grand honours are given . 

The second time passing round the Lodge, the 
Grand Senior Warden presents the pitcher of Wine 
to the Grand Master, who sprinkles it upon the Lodge,^ 
at the same time saying, * 

“ In the name of the Holy Saint Johns, I do 
solemnly dedicate this Hall to VIRTUE.” 

The grand honours are twice given . 


MASONIC CHART. 


80 

The third time passing round the Lodge, the Depu- 
ty Grand Master presents the Grand Master with the 
pitcher of Oil, who sprinkles it upon the Lodge, say- 
ing* 

“ In the name of the whole Fraternity, I do so- 
lemnly dedicate this Hall to UNIVERSAL BE- 
NEVOLENCE.” 

The grand honours are thrice given , 

A solemn Invocation is made to the Throne of 
Grace, by the Grand Chaplain, and an Anthem sung; 
after which, the Lodge is covered, and the Grand Mas- 
ter retires to his Chair. 

An Oration is then delivered, and the ceremonies 
conclude with music. 

The Grand Lodge is then closed in due and ample 
form. 


SECTION FIFTH. 

This section contains the ceremony observed at 
Funerals, according to ancient custom ; together with 
the Service used on such occasions. 

No mason can be interred with the formalities of the 
order, unless he has been raised to the sublime degree 
of Master Mason ; as no Fellow Craft or Entered Ap- 
prentices are entitled to funeral obsequies, nor to at- 
tend the masonic procession, on such occasions. 

All the brethren, who walk in procession, should 
observe, as much as possible, an uniformity in their 
dress. Decent mourning around the left arm, with 
white stockings, gloves and aprons, are most suitable. 

The Funeral Service . 

The brethren being assembled at the lodge room, (or 
some other convenient place,) the presiding officer 
opens the Lodge in the third degree, with the usual 
forms ; and haying stated the purpose of the meeting* 
the service begins : 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


81 


Master. “ What man is he that liveth, and shall 
uot see death ? Shall he deliver his soul from the 
hand of the grave ?” 

Response. “ Man walketh in a vain shadow ; he 
heapeth up riches, and cannot tell who shall gather 
them.” 

Master. “ When he dieth he shall carry nothing 
away ; his glory shall not descend after him.” 

Response. “ Naked he came into the world, and 
naked he must return.” 

Master. “ The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken 
away : blessed be the name of the Lord !” 

The Master then taking the roll in his hand, says, 
“Let us live and die like the righteous, that our last 
end may be like his !” 

The Brethren answer, “ God is our God for ever 
and ever; he will be our guide even unto death !” 

The Master then records the name and age of the 
deceased upon the roll, and says, 

“ Almighty Father ! in thy hands we leave w ith 
humble submission the soul of our deceased Bro- 
ther.” 

The Brethren answer three times, (giving the grand 
honours each time,) 

“ The will of God is accomplished ! So mote it 
be. Amen.” 

The Master then deposits the roll in the archieves . 
and repeats the following Prayer : 

“ Most glorious God ! author of all good, and 
giver of all mercy ! pour down thy blessings upoi. 


82 


MASONIC CHAR'S. 


us, and strengthen our solemn engagements with 
the ties of sincere affection ! May the present in- 
stance of mortality remind us of our approaching 
fate, and draw our attention toward thee, the only 
refuge in time of need ! that, when the awful mo- 
ment shall arrive, that we are about to quit this 
transitory scene, the enlivening prospect of thy 
mercy, through the Redeemer, may dispel the 
gloom of death ; and after our departure hence in 
peace, and in thy favour, may we be received into 
thine everlasting kingdom, to enjoy, in union with 
the souls of our departed friends, the just reward of 
a pious and virtuous life. Amen.” 

A procession is then formed, which moves to the 
house of the deceased, and from thence to the place of 
interment. 


Order of Procession at a Funeral. 

Tyler with a drawn Sword ; 

Stewards with white Rods ; 

Musicians, (if they are masons,) otherwise they follow 
the Tyler. 

Master Masons. 

.IT Senior and Junior Deacons ; 

-g Secretary and Treasurer ; 

Senior and Junior Wardens ; 

Mark Masters ; 

Past Masters ; 

Royal Arch Masons ; 

Select Masters ; 

Knights Templars ; 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


83 


The Holy Writings, on a cushion, covered with black 
cloth, carried by the oldest (or some suitable) 
Member of the Lodge ; 

The Master; 

Clergy ; 


The Body, with the 
Pall Bearers. 



insignia placed thereon. 
Pall Bearers. 


When the procession arrives at the church yard, 
the members of the lodge form a circle round the 
grave ; and the clergymen and officers of the lodge 
take their station at the head of the grave, and the 
mourners at the foot. The service is resumed, and 
the following Exhortation is given : 

“ Here we view a striking instance of the un- 
certainty of life, and the vanity of all human pur- 
suits. The last offices paid to the dead, are only 
useful as lectures to the living : — from them we 
are to derive instruction, and to consider every so- 
lemnity of this kind as a summons to prepare for 
our approaching dissolution. 

“ Notwithstanding the various mementos of 
mortality, with which we daily meet ; notwith- 
standing Death has established his empire over 
all the works of nature ; yet, through some un- 
accountable infatuation, we forget that we are 
born to die ; we go on from one design to another, 
add hope to hope, and lay out plans for the em- 


84 


MASONIC CHART. 


plo3 7 ment of many years, till we are suddenly 
alarmed with the approach of Death, when we 
least expect him, and at an hour which we proba- 
bly conclude to be the meridian of our existence. 

“ What are all the externals of majesty, the 
pride of wealth, or charms of beauty, when Na- 
ture has paid her just debt ? — Fix your eyes on 
the last scene, and view life stript of her orna- 
ments, and exposed in her natural meanness ; you 
will then be convinced of the futility of those emp- 
ty delusions. In the grave, all fallacies are de- 
tected, all ranks are levelled, and all distinctions 
are done away. 

“ While we drop the sympathetic tear over the 
grave of our deceased friend, let charity incline 
us to throw a veil over his foibles, whatever they 
may have been, and not withhold from his memo- 
ry the praise that his virtues may have claimed. 
Suffer the apologies of human nature to plead in 
his behalf. Perfection on earth has never been 
attained ; — the w isest, as w ell as the best of men, 
have erred. 

“ Let the present example excite our most seri- 
ous thoughts, and strengthen our resolutions of 
amendment. As life is uncertain, and all earthly 
pursuits are vain, let us no longer postpone the 
all-important concern of preparing for eternity ; 
but embrace the happy moment, while time and 
opportunity offer, to provide against the great 
change, when all the pleasures of this world shall 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


*5 

cease to delight, ana the reflections of a virtuous 
and holy life yield the only comfort and consola- 
tion. Thus our expectations will not be frustrated, 
nor we hurried unprepared into the presence of an 
all- wise and powerful Judge, to whom the secrets 
©f all hearts are known. 

“ Let us, while in this state of ex stence, sup- 
port with propriety the character of our profession, 
advert to the nature of our solemn ties, and pursue 
with assiduity the sacred tenets of our order# 
Then, with becoming reverence, let us seek the fa- 
vour of the Eternal God, through the merits of 
his Son our Saviour, so that when the awful mo- 
ment of Death arrives, be it soon or late, we may 
be enabled to prosecute our journey without dread 
or apprehension, to that far distant country, whence 
no traveller returns.” 

The following invocations are then made by the 
Master : 

Master. “ xMay we be true and faithful ; and may 
we live and die in love !” 

Answer. “ So mote it be.” 

Master. “May we profess what is good, and al- 
ways act agreeably to our profession !” 

Answer. “ So mote it be.” 

Master. “May the Lord bless us and prosper us 
and may all our good intentions be crowned with suc- 
cess!” 

Answer. “ So mote it be.” 

S 


16 


MASONIC CHART* 


Master. “ Glory to be to God in the highest ; on 
earth peace ! good will towards men !” 

Answer. “ So mote it be, now, from henceforth, and 
ffir ever more. Amen.” 

The apron is taken off from the coffin and handed 
to the Master — the coffin is deposited in the grave — 
and the Master says : 

This Lamb Skin, or white leather Apron, is an em- 
blem of Innocence, and the badge of a Mason, more an- 
cient than the golden fleece or Roman eagle; more 
honourable than the star and garter, when worthily 
worn. [The Master then deposits it in the grave . J 
This emblem I now deposit in the grave of our de- 
ceased Brother. By this we are reminded of the uni- 
versal dominion of Death. The arm of Friendship 
oannot oppose the King of Terrors, nor the charms of 
imocence elude his grasp. This grave, that coffin, 
this circle of mourning friends, remind us that we 
too are mortal : soon shall our bodies moulder to dust. 
Then how important for us that we should know that 
our Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the 
latter day upon the Earth. [ The Master , holding the 
evergreen in his handy continues ,] This evergreen is 
an emblem of our faith in the immortality of the soul. 
By this we are reminded that we have an immortal 
part within us, which shall survive the grave, and 
which shall never, never, never die. Though like 
•ur Brother whose remains now lie before us, we 
shall soon be clothed in the habiliments of Death and 
deposited in the silent tomb, yet through the media- 
tion of a divine and ascended Saviour, we may coi- 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


87 

tfdently hope that our souls will bloom in Eternal 
Spring. 

The brethren then move in procession round the 
place of interment, and severally drop the sprig of ev- 
ergreen into the grave ; after which, the public grand 
honours are given . 

The Master then continues the ceremony at the 
f} rave, in the following words : 

" From time immemorial, it has been the custom 
among the fraternity of free and accepted masons, at 
the request of a brother, to accompany his corpse t» 
the place of interment, and there to deposit his re- 
mains with the usual formalities. 

“ In conformity to this usage, and at the request of 
®ur deceased brother, whose memory we revere, and 
whose loss we now deplore, we have assembled in the 
character of masons, and to offer up to his memory, 
before the world, the last tribute of our affection ; 
thereby demonstrating the sincerity of our past esteem, 
and our steady attachment to the principles of the or- 
der. 

i( The great Creator having been pleased, out of his 
mercy, to remove our brother from the cares and trou- 
bles of a transitory existence, to a state of eternal du- 
ration, and thereby to weaken the chain, by which we 
are united man to man ; may we, who survive him 
anticipate our approaching fate, and be more strongly 
cemented in the ties of union and friendship; that, 
during the short space allotted to our present exist- 
ence, we may wisely and usefully employ our time ; 
and, in the reciprocal of intercourse of kind and friendly 


MASONIC CHART. 


8.8 

acts, mutually promote the welfare and happiness of 
*ach other. 

“ Unto the grave we have resigned the body of our 
deceased friend, earth to earth, dust to dust, ashes to 
ashes, there to remain until the trump shall sound on 
the resurrection morn. We can cheerfully leave him 
in the hands of a Being who has done all things well ; 
who is glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing 
wonders. Then let us all so improve this solemn warn- 
ing, that on the great day of account we may receive 
from the compassionate Judge, the welcome invitation, 
“ Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom 
prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” 

“ So mote it be. Amen.” 

u Almighty and eternal God, in whom we live, and 
move, and have our being — and before whom all men 
must appear in the judgment day to give an account of 
their deeds in life ; we, who are daily exposed to the 
dying shafts of death, and now surround the grave of 
•ur fallen brother ; most earnestly beseech thee to im- 
press deeply on our minds the solemnities of this day, 
as well as the lamentable occurrence that has occasion- 
ed them. Here may we be forcibly reminded, that in 
the midst of life we are in death, and that whatever 
elevation of character we may have attained ; however 
upright and square the course we have pursued ; yet 
-shortly must we all submit as victims of its destroying 
power, and endure the humbling level of the tomb, un- 
til the last loud trump shall sound the summons of ©Ur 
fmirrcciion from mortality and corruption 


PRESENT OR PAST MASTER. 


89 


“ May we have thy divine assistance, 0 merciful 
God, to redeem our mis-spent time ; and in the dis- 
charge of the important duties thou hast assigned us in 
the erection of our moral edifice, may we have ivisdom 
from on high to direct us, strength commensurate 
with our task to support us, and the beauty of holiness 
to adorn and render all our performances acceptable 
in thy sight : and when our work is done, and our 
bodies mingle with the mother earth , may our souls, 
disengaged from their cumbrous dust, flourish and 
bloom in eternal day ; and enjoy that rest which thou 
hast prepared for all good and faithful servants, in that 
spiritual house, not made with hands, eternal in the 
heavens, through the great Redeemer. Amen.” 

“ So mote it be. Amen.” 

The procession then returns in form to the place 
whence it set out, where the necessary duties are com- 
plied with, and the Lodge is closed in the third degree. 

Note. If the Grand Master attends, and presides 
at any ceremony , it is said to be performed in ample 
form ; — if a subordinate officer of the Grand Lodge , 
in due form ; — if vested in the master of a subordi- 
nate Lodge , in form. 


MOST EXCELLENT MASTER S 
DEGREE. 




NONE but those who have been inducted into 
the Oriental Chair of Solomon, by the unanimous suf- 
frages of their brethren, can be admitted to this degree 
of masonry. 

When the temple of Jerusalem was finished, and 
the cap-stone celebrated, with great joy, King Solo- 
mon admitted to this degree, only those who had prov- 
ed themselves worthy, by their virtue, skill, and in- 
flexible fidelity to the craft. The duties incumbent 
on a Most Excellent Master are such, that he should 
have a perfect knowledge of all the preceding degrees. 

The following Psalm is read at opening. 

Psalm xxiv. 

“The earth is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof; 
the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath 
founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the 
floods. — Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord ? 
or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath 
clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up 
his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall 
receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness 
from the God of his salvation. This is the generation 


MOST EXCELLENT MASTER, 


91 


of them that seek him, that seek thy face, 0 Jacob : 
Selah. Lift up your heads, O ye gates ; and be ye lift- 
ed up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory 
shall come in. Who is this King of Glory ? The Lord, 
strong and mighty; the Lord, mighty in battle. Lift 
up your heads, 0 ye gates ; even lift them up, ye ever- 
lasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in. 
Who is this King of Glory ? The Lord of Hosts, he is 
the King of Glory. Selah.” 

The following Psalm is read during the ceremony of 
receiving a candidate in this degree. 

Psalm cxxii. 

“ I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into 
the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within 
thy gates, 0 Jerusalem. Jerusalem is builded as a 
city that is compact together : whither the tribes go up, 
the tribes of the Lord, unto the testimony of Israel, to 
give thanks unto the name of the Lord. For there are 
set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of 
David. 

“ Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : they shall pros- 
per that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and 
prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and 
companions’ sakes, I will now say. Peace be within 
thee. Because of the house of the Lord our God, I 
will seek thy good.” 

The following Song is sung with solemn ceremony. 


92 


MASONIC CHART. 




MOST EXCELLENT MASTER’S SONG. 




The tem-ple’s com-ple-ted, Ex-alt high each voice : 



The tem-ple’s com-ple-ted, Ex-alt high each voice : 



^•ST EXCELLENT MASTER^ SON©. 93 



is* 


m 






The sound of the ga-vel shall hail us no more. 


IS* 




gfsip 


The sound of the ga-vel shall hail us no m»re. 


±=L& 


■# 

if 


& 




m 


FOR. • • 




'I* 


e 


ex 


i — r 


£ 


I T IV 1 


EHe 


To the Pow-er Al-migb-ty, who ev-er has gui-ded 


ft#—. — 

/ ■st • M ^ 

1 

1 Ob- 

• V 

:js » 




• 

1 

1 

-FP-ff 

— •— 

S- 


To the Pow-er Al-migh-ty, who ev-er has gui-ded 


94 


MASONIC CHART 


rftgrrji 

“T 

rr 


►»- 

J* 


*- 


List 

V* 

_ ft in 

1 F 

▼ 

^ I 

J l 

___l 

i ~ 

_£[ 

XL 


f n 

fcX iti 1 

It 


— 4 

xJ 

XL 






L-f 


kV 

2tLJ JLl 

j T_ 



in 

1 





tzc 


r The 

tribes of old 1 

• • 

Is - rael, ex - 

• • 

• — i 

alt - ing their 

far 

ne; 

[- 


3P 

£=fl 


— 

^ _ j 

— 

- — 

i 


* 

JS 

red 


J " 


X.! 

r 0 | 



ESLrxr 

rr r 

Jri 


1 


lXj 

ir j 


re • ■ 

I The tribes of old Is - rael, c 

!x - all 

A 

- ir 

ig their fame ; 

• • ^ 

r 


1 

i 


V 1 




[ J 



I 

; L 

j 


r 


[ 

czz 

[ ( 

X- 

1 ft [ 

A j * 

nr 

-j 


i 


{ 

1 

1 ' | 


L_x 1 — 

t • ®T 

i » 

i 

1 1 

r 




MOST EXCELLENT MASTEfU 


$5 


Companions assemble 
On this joyful day ; 

(The occasion is glorious,) 

The key-stone to lay: 

Fulfill’d is the promise. 

By the ANCIENT OF DAYS, 

To bring forth the cap-stone 
With shouting and praise. 

[ Ceremonies.'] 

There is no more occasion for level or plumb-line. 

For trowel or gavel, for compass or square : 

Our works are completed, the ark safely seated. 

And we shall be greeted as workmen most rare. 

Now those that are worthy. 

Our toils who have shar’d, 

And prov’d themselves faithful, 

Shall meet their reward. 

Their virtue and knowledge. 

Industry and skill. 

Have our approbation, 

Have gain’d our good will. 

We accept and receive them, Most Excellent Masters, 
Invested with honours, and power to preside ; 

Among worthy crafts-men, wherever assembled, 

The knowledge of masons to spread far and wide. 

ALMIGHTY JEHOVAH! 

Descend now and fill 
This Lodge with thy glory, 

Our hearts with good will,! 

Preside at our meetings. 

Assist us to find 
True pleasure in teaching 
Good will to mankind. 

Thy wisdom inspired the great institutio*, 

Thy strength shall support it till nature expire; 

And when the creation shall fall into ruin, 

Its beauty shall rise through the midst of the fire i 


96 


MASONI# CHART. 


The ceremony closes with the following passage: 

2 Chron. vii. 1 — 4. 

Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, 
the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the 
burnt offering and sacrifices ; and the glory of the Lord 
filled the house. And the priest could not enter into 
the house of the Lord, because the glory of the Lord 
had filled the Lord’s house. 

And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire 
came down, and the glory of the Lord upon the house, 
they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground 
upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the 
Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy en- 

DUKETH FOR EVER. 

| The following Psalm is read at closing. 

Psalm xxiii. 

“ The Lord is my shepherd ; I shall not want. He 
maketh me to lie down in green pastures : he leadeth 
me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he 
leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s 
sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the 
shadow of death, I will fear no evil : for thou art with 
me ; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou 
preparest a table before me in the presence of mine 
enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup 
runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall fol- 
low me all the days of my life ; and I will dwell in the 
hoase of the Lord for ever.” 


MOST EXCELLENT MASTER. ^ $7 

CHARGE to a Brother who is received and ae- 
knowledged as a most excellent master. 

“ Brother, 

“ Your admittance to this degree of masonry, 
is a proof of the good opinion the brethren of 
this lodge entertain of your masonic abilities. 
Let this consideration induce you to be careful of 
forfeiting, by misconduct, and inattention to our 
rules, that esteem which has raised you to the rank 
you now possess. 

“ It is one of your great duties as a most excel- 
lent master, to dispense light and truth to the unin- 
formed mason ; and I need not remind you of the 
impossibility of complying with this obligation, 
without possessing an accurate acquaintance with 
the lectures of each degree. 

“ If you are not already completely conversant 
in all the degrees heretofore conferred on you, re- 
member, that an indulgence, prompted by a belief 
that you will apply yourself with double diligence 
to make yourself so, has induced the brethren to 
accept you. 

“ Let it therefore be your unremitting study, t® 
acquire such a degree of knowledge and informa- 
tion, as shall enable you to discharge with propria 
ety, the various duties incumbent on you, and to 
preserve unsullied, the title now conferred upon 
you, of a MOST EXCELLENT MASTER” 
0 


MASONIC J5HART. 


9 & f 

A Description of Solomon’s Temple. 

This structure, for beauty, magnificence, and ex- 
pense, exceeded any building which was ever erected. 
It was built of large stones of white marble, curiously 
hewn, and so artfully joined together, that they ap- 
peared like \one entire stone. Its inner Walts , Beams , 
Posts , Doors , Floors , and Ceilings, wene made of ce- 
dar and olive wood, and planks of fir ; which were en- 
tirely covered with plates of gold, with various beauti- 
ful engravings, and adorned with precious jewels of 
many splendid colours. The nails which fastened 
those plates w r ere also of gold, with heads of curious 
workmanship. The roof was of olive wood, covered 
with gold ; and when the sun shone thereon, the reflec- 
tion from it was of such a refulgent splendour , that it 
dazzled the eyes of all who beheld it. The court in 
which the temple stood, and the courts without, were 
adorned on all sides with stately buildings, and clois- 
ters ; and the gates entering therein, were exquisitely 
beautiful and elegant. The vessels consecrated to the 
perpetual use of the temple, were suited to the mag- 
nificence of the edifice in which they w ere deposited 
and used. 

Josephus states, that there were one hundred and 
forty thousand of those vessels, which were made of 
gold, and one million three hundred and fortv thou- 
sand of silver ; ten thousand vestments for the" priests, 
made of silk, with purple girdles ; and two millions of 
purple vestments for the singers. There were also 
two hundred thousand trumpets, and forty thousand 
other musical instruments, made use of in the temple, 
and in worshipping God. 

According to the most accurate computation of the 
number of talents of gold, silver, and brass, laid out 
upon the temple, the sum amounts to six thousand 
nine hundred and four millions, eight hundred and 
twenty-two thousand and five hundred pounds ster- 
ling; and the jewels are reckoned to exceed this sum. 
The gold vessels are estimated at five hundred and 


forty -five millions, two hundred and ninety-six thou- 
sand, two hundred and three pounds, and four shil- 
lings, sterling ; and the silver ones, at four hundred and 
thirty-nine millions, three hundred and forty-four 
thousand pounds sterling; amounting in all, to nine 
hundred and eighty-four millions, six hundred and 
thirty thousand, two hundred and thirty pounds, four 
shillings. In addition to this, there were expenses for 
workmen, and for materials brought from Mount Li- 
banus, and the quarries of Zeradatha. There were 
ten thousand men per month in Lebanon, employed in 
falling and preparing the timbers for the craftsmen to 
hew them ; seventy thousand to carry burdens ; eighty 
thousand to hew the stones and timber; and three thou- 
sand three hundred overseers of the work ; who were 
all employed for seven years ; to whom, besides their 
wages and diet, King Solomon gave, as a free gift, six 
millions, seven hundred and thirty-three thousand, nine 
hundred and seventy-seven pounds. 

The treasure left by David, towards carrying on this 
noble and glorious work, is reckoned to be nine hun- 
dred and eleven millions, four hundred and sixteen 
thousand, two hundred and seven pounds; to which, if 
we add King Solomon’s annual revenue, his trading to 
Ophir for gold, and the present^ made him by all the 
earth, as mentioned 1 Kings x. 24, 25, we shall not 
wonder at his being able to carry on so expensive a 
work; nor can we, without impiety, question its sur- 
passing all other structures, since we are assured that 
It was built by the immediate direction of HEAVEN. 



MO 


EXCE 




\ ' 
ENT MASTER. 


ROYAL ARCH DEGREE. 




THIS degree is more august, sublime, and im- 
portant, than all which precede it. It impresses on 
our minds a belief of the being and existence of the 
Supreme Grand High Priest of our Salvation ; who is» 
without beginning of days or end of years; and for- 
cibly reminds us of the reverence due to his Holy 
Name. 

In this degree is brought to light many essentials 
which are of importance to the craft, that were con- 
cealed in darkness for the space of four hundred and 
seventy years ; and without a knowledge of which the 
masonic character cannot be complete. 

SECTION FIRST. 

This section explains the mode of government in 
this degree ; it designates the appellation, number and 
situation of the several officers, and points out the pur^ 
pose and duty of their respective stations. The vari- 
ous colours of their banners are designated ; and the 
morals to which they allude are introduced and ex- 
plained. 

The following passage of scripture is read at open- 
ing: 


2 Thess. iii. 6 — 18. 

Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from 
every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after 
the tradition which ye received of ns. For your- 


K01AL ARCH. 


161 

selves know how ye ought to follow us : for we behav- 
ed not ourselves disorderly among you; neither did 
we eat any man’s bread for nought ; but wrought with 
labour and travail night and day, that we might not be 
chargeable to any of you ; not because we have not 
power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to 
follow us. For even when we were with you, this we 
commanded you, that if any would not work, neither 
should he eat. For we hear that there are some which 
walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are 
busybodies. Now them that are such we command 
and exhort, by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quiet- 
ness they work, and eat their own bread. But yq, 
brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any 
man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, 
and have no company with him, that he may be asham- 
ed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish 
him as a brother. Now the Lord of peace himself 
give you peace always by all means. The Lord be 
with you all. 

The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which 
is the token in every epistle : so I write. The grace 
of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 

SECTION SECOND. 

This section contains much valuable historical in- 
formation, and exhibits to our view, in striking colours, 
that prosperity and happiness are ever the ultimate 
consequences of virtue and justice; while disgrace 
and ruin invariably follow the practices of vice and 
immorality. 

The following charges and passages of scripture are 
introduced during the ceremony of Exaltation 

9 * 


MASONIC CJHAItfl. 


w 

Isaiah xliii. 16. 

“ I will bring the blind by a way that they knew 
not ; I will lead them in paths that they have not 
known; I will make darkness light before them, and 
•rooked things straight. These things will I do unto 
them, and will not forsake them.” 

Prayer used at the Exaltation of a Royal Arcli 
Mason. 

O thou eternal and omnipotent JEHOVAH, the 
glorious and everlasting I AM, permit us, thy frail, 
dependent and needy creatures, in the name of our 
Most Excellent and Supreme High Priest , to approach 
thy divine majesty. And do thou, who sittest between 
the Cherubim , incline thine ear to the voice of our 
praises, and of our supplication ; and vouchsafe to 
commune with us from off the mercy seat. We hum- 
bly adore and worship thy unspeakable perfections, 
and thy unbounded goodness and benevolence. We 
bless thee, that when man had sinned, and fallen from 
his innocence and happiness, thou didst still leave un- 
to him the powers of reasoning, and the capacity of 
improvement and of pleasure. We adore thee, that 
amidst the pains and calamities of our present state, 
so many means of refreshment and satisfaction are 
afforded us, while travelling the rugged path of life . 
And 0, thou who didst aforetime appear unto thy ser- 
vant Moses in a flame of fire , out of the midst of a 
hush, enkindle, we beseech thee, in each of our hearts 
a fl mie of devotion to thee, of love to each other, and 
»f benevolence and charity to all mankind. May the 
veils of ignorance and blindness be removed from tk? 


ROYA1 ARCH. 


ms 

eyes of our understandings, that we may behold and 
adore thy mighty and wondrous works. May the rod 
and staff of thy grace and power continually support 
us, and defend us from the rage of all our enemies, and 
especially from the subtilty and malice of that old 
serpent , who with cruel vigilance seeketh our ruin. 
May the leprosy of sin be eradicated from our bosoms ; 
and may Holiness to the Lord be engraven upon all 
our thoughts, words and actions. May the incense of 
piety ascend continually unto thee, from off the altar 
of our hearts, and burn day and night , as a sweet- 
smelling savour unto thee. May we daily search the 
records of truth , that we may be more and more in- 
structed in our duty ; and may we share the blessed- 
ness of those who hear the sacred word , and keep it. 
And finally, O merciful Father, when we shall have 
passed through the outward veils of these earthly 
oourts, when the earthly house of this tabernacle shall 
be dissolved, may we be admitted into the Holy of 
Holies above, into the presence of the Grand Council 
of heaven, where the Supreme High Priest for eVer 
presides, for ever reigns. Amen. So mote it be. 

Exodus iii. 1 — 6. 

“ Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father-in- 
law, the priest of Midian ; and he led the flock to the 
back side of the desert, and came to the mountain of 
God, even to Horeb. And the angel of the Lord ap- 
peared unto him in a flame of fire, out of the midst of 
a bush; and he looked, and behold the bush burned 
with fire, and the bush was not consumed. 


i©4 


MASONIC CHART. 


“ And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to 
see, God called to him out of the bush, and said, Mo- 
ses, Moses! And he said, Here am I. And he said. 
Draw not nigh hither: put off’ thy shoes from off thy 
feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy 
ground. Moreover he said, I am the God of thy fa- 
ther, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the 
God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face: for he wafs 
afraid to look upon God.” 

2 Chron. xxxvi. 11 — 20. 

Zedekiah was one and twenty years old, when he 
began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusa- 
lem. And he did that which was evil in the sight of 
the Lord his God, and humbled not himself before Je- 
remiah the prophet, speaking from the mouth of the 
Lord. And he also rebelled against king Nebuchad- 
nezzar, and stiffened his neck, and hardened his heart* 
from turning unto the Lord God of Israel. Moreover 
all the chief of the priests and the people transgressed 
very much, after all the abominations of the heathen 
and polluted the house of the Lord, which he had hal- 
lowed in Jerusalem. And the Lord God of their fa- 
thers sent to them by his messengers, because he had 
compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place* 
But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised 
his word, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of 
the Lord arose against his people, till there was no 
remedy. 

Therefore he brought upon them the king of the 
Chaldees, who slew their young men with the sword, 
in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion 


ROYAL ARCH. 


ie5> 

•upon young men or maidens, old men, or him that 
stooped for age ; he gave them all into his hand. And 
all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, 
and the treasures of the house of the Lord, and the 
treasures of the King, and his princes : all these he 
brought to Babylon. 

And they burnt the house of God, and brake down 
the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt all the palaces thereof 
with lire, and destroyed all the goodly vessels thereof. 
And them that had escaped from the sword, carried he 
away to Babylon ; — where they were servants to him 
and his sons, until the reign of the kingdom of Persia. 

Ezra i. 1 — 3. 

Now, in the first year of Cyrus, King of Persia, the 
Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus, King of Persia, 
that he made a proclamation throughout all his king- 
dom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith 
Cyrus, King of Persia, The Lord God of Heaven hath 
given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he hath 
charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which 
is in Judah. — Who is there among you of all his peo- 
ple ? His God be with him, and let him go up to Je- 
rusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the 
Lord God of Israel, which is in Jerusalem. 

Exodus iii. 13, 14. 

And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come 
unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them. 
The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you ; and 
they shall say to me, What is his name ? what shall I 
sav unto them ? 


MASONIC CHART. 


And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM-; 
And thus thou shalt say unto the children of Israel-, 
I AM hath sent me unto you. 

Psalm cxli. 

Lord, I cry unto thee : make haste unto me ; give 
ear unto my voice. Let my prayer be set forth before 
thee as incense, and the lifting up of hands as the eve- 
ning sacrifice. Set a watch, 0 Lord, before my mouth ; 
keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any 
evil thing, to practice wicked works with men that 
work iniquity. Let the righteous smite me, it shall be 
a kindness ; let him reprove me, it shall be an excel- 
lent oil. Mine eyes are unto thee, 0 God the Lord ; 
in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute. 
Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me,, 
and the gins of the workers of iniquity. Let the wick- 
ed fall into their own nets, while that I withal escape. 

Psalm cxlii. 

I cried unto the Lord with my voice ; with my voice 
unto the Lord did I make my supplication. I poured 
out my complaint before him : I shewed before him my 
trouble. When my spirit was overwhelmed within 
me, then thou knewest my path ; in the way wherein 
I walked, have they privily laid a snare for me. I 
looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no 
man that would know me : refuge failed me : no man 
cared for my soul. I cried unto thee, 0 Lord : 1 said, 
Thou art my refuge, and my portion in the land of the 
living. Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very 
low; deliver me from my persecutors; for they are 


lid YAL AH0H. 


ler 

stronger than I. Bring my soul out of darkness, that 
I may may praise thy name. 

Psalm cxliii. 

Hear my prayer, 0 Lord ; give ear to my supplica- 
tion. In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy right- 
eousness. And enter not inxo judgment with thy ser- 
vant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified. 
For the enemy hath persecuted my soul ; he hath made 
me to dwell in darkness. Therefore is my spirit over- 
whelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate. 
Hear me speedily, 0 Lord; my spirit faileth; hide 
not thy face from me, lest I be like them that go down 
into the pit. Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in 
the morning ; for in thee do I trust : cause me to know 
the way wherein I should walk ; for I lift up my soul 
unto thee. Teach me to do thy will ; for thou art my 
God : bring my soul out of trouble, and of thy mercy 
cut off mine enemies, for I am thy servant. 

Exodus iv. 1 — 10. 

“ And Moses answered and said, But behold, they 
will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for 
they will say. The Lord hath not appeared unto thee. 
And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine 
hand ? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on 
the ground : and he cast it on the ground, and it became 
a serpent ; and Moses fled from before it. And the 
Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take 
it by the tail. And he put forth his hand and caught 
it, and it became a rod in his hand. That they may 
^believe that the Lord God of your fathers, the God of 


108 


MASONIC CHART. 


Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, 
hath appeared unto thee. 

“ And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put now 
thine hand into thy bosom ; and he put his hand into 
his bosom; and when he took it out, behold, his hand 
was leprous as snow. And he said. Put thine hand 
into thy bosom again ; and he put his hand into his bo- 
som again ; and he plucked it out of his bosom, and, 
behold, it was turned again as his other flesh. And it 
shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither 
hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will be- 
lieve the voice of the latter sign. 

“ And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe 
also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice., 
that thou shalt take of the w ater of the river, and pour 
it upon the dry land : and the water which thou takest 
out of the river, shall become blood upon the dry land.” 

Haggai ii. 2 — 4, 23. 

Speak now to Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, gov- 
ernor of Judah, and to Joshua, the son of Josedec, the 
high priest, and to the residue of the people, saying* 
Who is left among you, that saw this house in her first 
glory ? and how do you see it now ? is it not, in your 
eyes, in comparison of it, as nothing? Yet now be 
strong, 0 Zerubbabel ; and be strong, 0 Joshua, son of 
Josedec the high priest ; and be strong, all ye people of 
the land, saith the Lord, and work: for 1 am with you, 
saith the Lord of hosts. 

“ In that day, will I take thee, 0 Zerubbabel, my 
servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the Lord, and will 
make thee, as a signet : for I have chosen thee.” 


R»YAL ARCH. 


m 

Zechariah iv. 9, 10. 

The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundatioa 
♦f this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou 
shaft know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto 
you. For who hath despised the day of small things? 
for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the 
hand of Zerubbabel, with those seven. 

Amos ix. 11. 

“ In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of Da- 
vid that is fallen, and close up the breaches thereof, 
and 1 will raise up his ruins, and I will build it as in 
the days of old.” 

The following passages of scripture are read by the 
High Priest. 


Genesis i. 1 — 3. 

In the beginning God created the heaven and the 
earth. And the earth was without form and void; 
and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the 
Spirit of God moved upon the face of the Waters. — - 
And God said, Let there be light : and there was 

light. Deut. xxxi. 24 — 26. And it came to pass^ 

when Moses had made an end of writing the words of 
this law in a book, until they were finished, that Moses 
commanded the Levites which bare the ark of the 
covenant of the Lord, saying, Take this book of the 
law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant 
of the Lord your God, that it may be there for a wit- 
ness against thee. Exodus xx. 21. And thou shalt 

put the mercy seat above, upon the ark ; and in the 
ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee. 
—Exodus xvi. 32 — 34. And Moses said, This is 
10 


110 


MASONIC CHART. 


the thing which the Lord commandeth, Fill an omer 
of the manna, to be kept for your generations; that 
they may see the bread wherewith I have fed you in 
the w ilderness, when I brought you forth from the land 
of Egypt. And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot, 
and put an omer full of manna therein, and lay it up 
before the Lord, to be kept for your generations. As 
the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up be- 
fore the testimony to be kept. Numbers xvii. 10. 

And the Lord said unto Moses, Bring Aaron’s rod 

again before the testimony, to be kept for a token. 

Hebrews ix. 2 — 5. For there w as a tabernacle made ; 
the first, w herein was the candlestick, and the table, 
and the shew -bread, which is called the Sanctuary. 
And after the veils, the tabernacle, which is called the 
Holiest of all ; which had the golden censer, and the 
ark of the covenant, overlaid round about with gold, 
wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aa- 
ron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; 
and over it, the cherubims of glory, shadowing the 
mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particu 
larly. 

Exodus vi. 2, 3. 

“ And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, 
I am the Lord : and I appeared unto Abraham, unto 
Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty; 
but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known t® 
them.” 

The High Priest will then recite the following pas- 
sage, previous to investing the candidate with an im- 
portant secret of the degree. 


ROYAL ARCH * 


111 


John i. 1 — 5. 

“In the beginning was the Word: and the Word 
was with God, and the word was God. The same 
was in the beginning with God. All things were made 
by him : and without him was not any thing made 
that was made. In him was life, and the life was the 
light of men. And the light shineth in darkness, and 
the darkness comprehendeth it not.” 

The following remarks relative to King Solomon’s 
Temple, cannot be uninteresting to a Royal Arch Ma- 
son. 

This famous fabric was situated on Mount Moriah, 
near the place where Abraham w as about to offer up 
his son Isaac, and where David met and appeased the 
destroying angel, who was visible over the threshing 
floor of Oman the Jebusile. It was begun in the fourth 
year of the reign of Solomon ; the third after the death 
of David; four hundred and eighty years after the 
passage of the Red Sea, and on the second day of the 
month Zif, being the second month of the sacred year, 
which answers to the 21st of April, in the year of the 
w r orld two thousand nine hundred and ninety-two; 
and was carried on with such prodigious speed, that it 
was finished, in all its parts, in little more than seven 
years. 

By the masonic art, and the wise regulations of Solo- 
mon, this famous edifice was erected without the 
sound of the axe, hammer, or any tool of iron; for the 
stones were all hewed, squared and numbered, in the 
quarries of Zeradathah, where they were raised; the 
timbers were fitted and prepared in the forest of Leba- 
non, and conveyed by sea in floats to Joppa, and from 
thence by land to Jerusalem; where the fabric was 
erected by the assistance of wooden instruments pre- 
pared for that purpose. And when the building was 
finished? its several parts fitted with that exact nicety. 


MAS#NIC ©HART. 


m 

that it had more the appearance of being the handy 
work of the Supreme Architect of the Universe, than 
of human hands. 

In the year of the world 3029, King Solomon died, 
and was succeeded by his son Rehoboam. Soon after 
this, instigated and led on by Jeroboam, the son of Ne- 
bat, ten of the tribes revolted from Rehoboam, and set 
up a separate kingdom, with Jeroboam at their head. 
In this manner were the tribes of Israel divided, and 
under two distinct governments, for two hundred and 
fifty-four years. The ten revolted tribes became weak 
and degenerated; their country was laid waste, and 
their government overthrown and extirpated by Sai- 
manezer. King of Assyria. After a series of changes 
and events, Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, having 
besieged Jerusalem, and raised towers all round the 
city, so that, after defending it for the space of a year 
and a half, it was, in the eleventh year of the reign of 
Zedekiah, King of Judah, surrendered and delivered 
at midnight to the officers of Nebuchadnezzar, who 
sacked and destroyed the temple, and took away all the 
holy vessels, together with those two famous brazen 
pillars ; and the remnant of the people that escaped the 
sword, carried he away captives to Babylon, where 
they remained servants to him and his successors, un- 
til the reign of Cyrus, King of Persia. Cyrus, in the 
first year of his reign, being directed by that divine 
power which invisibly led him to the throne of Persia, 
issued his famous edict for the liberation of the He- 
brew captives, with permission that they should return 
to their native country, and rebuild the city and house 
of the Lord. Accordingly, the principal people of the 
tribes of Judah and Benjamin, with the Priests and 
Levites, immediately departed for Jerusalem, and com * 
menced the great and glorious work. 


ROYAL ARCH. 


113 


CHARGE to a newly Exalted Companion . 
Worthy Companion, 

By the consent and assistance of the members 
of this Chapter, you are now exalted to the sub- 
lime and honourable degree of Royal Arch Ma- 
son. The rites and mysteries developed in this 
degree, have been handed down through a chosen 
few, unchanged by time, and uncontrolled by pre- 
judice; and we expect and trust, they will here- 
graded by you with the same veneration, and 
transmitted with the same scrupulous purity, to 
your successors. 

No one can reflect on the ceremonies of gaining 
admission into this place, without being forcibly 
struck with the important lessons which they 
teach, tfere we are necessarily led to contem- 
plate, with gratitude and admiration, the sacred 
Source from whence all earthly comforts flow. — 
Here we find additional inducements to continue 
stedfast and immoveable in the discharge of our 
respective duties ; and here we are bound by the 
most solemn ties, to promote each other’s welfare, 
and correct each other’s failings, by advice, admo. 
nition, and reproof As it is our earnest desire, 
and a duty we owe to our companions of this 
order, that the admission of every candidate into 
this chapter, should be attended by the approba- 
tion of the most scrutinizing eye, we hope always 
to possess the satisfaction of finding none among 
10 * 


n 4 


MASONIC CHART. 


us, but such as will promote, to the utmost of 
their power, the great end of our institution. By 
paying due attention to this determination, we ex- 
pect you will never recommend any candidate to 
this Chapter, whose abilities, and knowledge of 
the preceding degrees, you cannot freely vouch 
for, and whom you do not firmly and confidently 
believe, will fully conform to the principles of our 
order, and fulfil the obligations of a Royal Arch 
Mason. While such are our members, we may ex- 
pect to be united in one object, without lukewarm- 
ness, inattention or neglect; but zeal, fidelity and 
affection, will be the distinguishing characteristics 
of our society ; and that satisfaction, harmony and 
peace, may be enjoyed at our meetings, which no 
other society can afford. 

Closing Prayer. 

By the wisdom of the Supreme High Priest, may we 
be directed ; by his strength, may we be enabled ; and 
by the beauty of virtue, may we be incited, to perform 
the obligations here enjoined on us; to keep inviolably 
the mysteries here unfolded to us; and invariably to 
practice all those duties out of the Chapter, which are 
inculcated in it. 

[Response.] So mote it be. Amen. 


ROYAL MASTER’S DEGREE. 


— &&&— 


THIS degree cannot legally be conferred on any 
but Royal Arch Masons, who have taken all the pre- 
ceding degrees ; and it is preparatory to that of the 
Select Master. Although it is short, yet it contains 
some valuable information, and is intimately connected 
with the degree of Select Master. It also enables us 
with ease and facility to examine the privileges of oth- 
ers to this degree; while, at the same time, it proves 
ourselves. 

The following passages of scripture, &c. are con- 
sidered to be appropriate to this degree. 

1 Kings vii. 48 — 50, and 40. 

And Solomon made all the vessels that pertained 
unto the house of the Lord : the altar of gold, and the 
table of gold, whereupon the shew-bread was; and 
the candlesticks of pure gold ; five on the right side, 
and five on the left, before the oracle ; with the flow- 
ers, and the lamps, and the tongs of gold; and the 
bowls, and the snuffers, and the basons, and the spoons, 
and the censers, of pure gold ; and the hinges of gold, 
both for the doors of the inner house, the most holy 
place, and for the doors of the house, to wit, of the 
Temple. So Hiram made an end of doing all the 


116 


MASONIC CHART. 


work, that he had 1 made King Solomon, for the house 
of the Lord. 


Rev. xxii. 12 — 14. 

And; behold 1 come quickly ; and my reward is with 
me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. 
the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his 
commandments, that they may have a right to the tree 
of life, and may enter in through the gates into the 
city. 


1 Kings vi. 27. 

And he set the cherubims within the inner house; 
and they stretched forth the wings of the cherubims, so 
that the wing of the one touched the one wall ; and the 
wing of the other cherub touched the other wall : and 
their wings touched one another in the midst of the 
house. 

The Ark, called the glory of Israel, which was seat- 
ed in the middle of the holy place, under the wings of 
the cherubim, was a small chest, or coffer, three feet 
nine inches long, two feet three inches wide, and three 
feet three inches high. It was made of wood, except- 
ing only the mercy seat, but overlaid with gold, both 
inside and out. I t had a ledge of gold surrounding it 
at the top, into which the cover, called the mercy seat, 
was let in. The mercy seat was of solid gold, the 
thickness of a hand’s breadth : at the two ends of it 
were two cherubims, looking inwards towards each 
other, with their wings expanded ; which embracing 
the whole circumference of the mercy seat, they met 
on each side, in the middle ; all of which, the Rabbins 
say, was made out of the same mass, without any sol- 
dering of parts. 


ROYAL MASTER. 


117 


Here the Shekinah, or Divine Presence, rested, and 
was visible in the appearance of a cloud over it. From 
hence the Bathkoll issued, and gave answers when 
God was consulted. And hence it is that God is said, 
in the scripture, to dwell between the cherubim; that 
is, between the cherubim on the mercy seat, because 
there was the seat or throne of the visible 1 appearance 
of his glory among them. 


SELECT MASTER’S DEGREE. 

Juc' 4 .'; ^')L’K HfejMifc 


— &Q & — 


THIS degree is the summit and perfection of 
ancient masonry ; and without which the history of 
the Royal Arch Degree cannot be complete. It ra- 
tionally accounts for the concealment and preservation 
of those essentials of the craft, which were brought to 
light at the erection of the second Temple, and which 
lay concealed from the masonic eye four hundred and 
seventy years. 

Many particulars relative to those few who, for their 
superior skill, were selected to complete an important 
part of King Solomon’s Temple, are explained. 

And here too is exemplified an instance of justice 
and mercy, by our ancient patron, towards one of the 
craft, who was led to disobey his commands, by an 
over zealous attachment for the institution. It ends 
with a description of a particular circumstance, which 
characterizes the degree. 

The following Pslalm is read at opening: 

Psalm Ixxxvii. 

“ His foundation is in the holy mountains. The Lord 
loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings 
of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city 
of God. Selah. I will make mention of Rahab and 
Babylon, to them that know me. Behold Philistia, and 
Tyre, with Ethiopia; this man was born there. And 


SELECT MASTER. 


119 


ef Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in 
her; and the highest himself shall establish her. The 
Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people, that 
this man was born there. Selah. As well the sins;- 
ers, as the players on instruments, shall be there : all 
mv springs are in thee.” 

The following passages of scripture are introduced 
and explained : 

1 Kings iv. 1, 5 and 6. 

So King Solomon was king over all Israel. Aza- 
riah, the son of Nathan, was over the officers; and 
Zabud, the son of Nathan, was principal officer, and 
the king’s friend ; and Ahishar was over the house- 
hold ; and Adoniram, the -son of Abda, was over the 
tribute. 


1 Kings v. 17, 18. 

And the king commanded, and they brought great 
stones, costly stones, and hewed stones, to lay the 
foundation of the house. And Solomon’s builders and 
iHiram’s builders did hew them, and the stone-squarers: 
so they prepared timber and stones to build the house. 

1 Kings viii. 13, 14. 

And King Solomon sent and fetched Hiram out of 
Tyre. He was a widow’s son, of the tribe of Naph- 
tali ; and his father was a man of Tyre, a worker of 
brass ; and he was filled with wisdom and understand- 
ing, and cunning, to work all works in brass. 

Ezekiel xxvii. 9. 

The ancien's of Gebal, and the wise men thereof 
faere in thee thy calkers : all the ships of the sea, with 


1£0 


MASONIC CHART. 


their mariners, were in thee, to occupy thy merchan- 
dize. 


Deut. xxxi. £4 — £6. 

And it came to pass, when Moses had made an end 
of writing the words of this law in a book, until they 
were finished, that Moses commanded the Levites, 
which bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord, saying. 
Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the 
ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, that it may 
be there for a witness against thee. 

Exodus xvi. 33, 34. 

And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot, and put an 
omer full of manna therein, and lay it up before the 
Lord, to be kept for your generations. As the Lord 
commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the tes- 
timony to be kept. 

Numbers xvii. 10. 

And the Lord said unto Moses, Bring Aaron’s rod 
again before the testimony, to be kept for a token. 

Numbers vii. 89. 

And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of 
the congregation, to speak with him, then he heard the 
voice of one speaking unto him from oft* the mercy seat, 
that was upon the ark of the testimony, from between 
the two cherubims : and he spa! e unto him. 

Exodus xxv. 40. 

And look that thou make them after their pattern 
Which was shewed thee in the mount. 


5ELECT MASTER. 


121 


CHARGE io a Select Master . 
Companion, 

Having attained to this degree, you have passed 
the circle of perfection in ancient masonry. In the 
capacity of Select Master, you must be sensible that 
your obligations are increased in proportion to your 
privileges. Let it be your constant care to prove 
yourself worthy of the confidence reposed in you, 
and of the high honour conferred on you, in admit- 
ting you to this select degree. Let uprightness and 
integrity attend your steps ; let justice and mercy 
mark your conduct ; let fervency and zeal stimulate 
you in the discharge of the various duties incumbent 
on you ; but suffer not an idle or impertinent curiosi- 
ty to lead you astray, or betray you into danger. Be 
deaf to every insinuation which would have a ten- 
dency to weaken your resolution, or tempt you to 
an act of disobedience. Be voluntarily dumb and 
blind , when the exercise of those faculties would en- 
danger the peace of your mind or the probity of 
your conduct; and let silence and secrecy , those 
cardinal virtues of a Select Master, on all necessary 
occasions, be scrupulously observed. By a steady 
adherance to the important instructions contained 
in this degree, you will merit the approbation of the 
select number with whom you are associated, and 
will enjoy the high satisfaction of having acted well 
your part in the important enterprize in which you 
are engaged ; and after having wrought your regu- 
lar hours , may you be admitted to participate in all 
the privileges of a Select Master . 


ORDER OF HIGH PRIESTHOOD 


— 9 !©^ — 


r FHIS order appertains to the office of High 
Priest of a Royal Arch Chapter: and no one can be 
legally entitled to receive it, until he has been duly 
elected to preside as High Priest in a regular Chapter 
of Royal Arch Masons. This order should not be 
conferred when a less number than three duly quali- 
fied High Priests are present. Whenever the ceremo- 
ny is performed in due and ample form, the assistance 
of at least nine High Priests, who have received it, is 
requisite. 

Though the High Priest of every regular Royal 
Arch Chapter, having himself been duly qualified, can 
confer the order, under the preceding limitation as to 
number; yet it is desirable, when circumstances wilt 
permit, that it should be conferred by the Grand High 
Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter, or such Pre- 
sent. or Past High Priest as he may designate for that 
purpose. A convention, notified to meet at the time of 
any convocation of the Grand Chapter, will afford the 
best opportunity of conferring this important and ex- 
alted degree of masonry, with appropriate solemnity. 
Whenever it is conferred, the following directions are 
to be observed. 

A candidate desirous of receiving the order of High 
Priesthood, makes a w ritten request to his predecessor 
in office, or, when it can be done, to the Grand High 
Priest, respectfully requesting that a convention of 
High Priests may be called, for the purpose of confer- 
ring on him the order. When the convention meets. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


123 


and is duly organized, a certificate of the due election 
of the candidate to the office of High Priest, must be 
produced. This certificate is signed by his predeces- 
sor in office, attested by the Secretary of the Chapter. 
On examination of this certificate, the qualifications of 
the candidate are ascertained. The solemn ceremo- 
nies of conferring the order upon him, then ensue. 
"W hen ended, the presiding officer directs the Secreta- 
ry of the convention to make a record of the proceed- 
ings, and return it to the Secretary of the Grand Chap- 
ter, to be by him laid before the Grand High Priest, for 
the information of all whom it may concern. The con- 
vention of High Priests is then dissolved in due form. 

It is the duty of every Companion, as soon after his 
election to the office of High Priest, as is consistent 
with his personal convenience, to apply for admission 
to the order of High Priesthood, that he may be fully 
qualified properly to govern his Chapter. 

The following passages of scripture are made use of 
during the ceremonies appertaining to this order. 

Genesis xiv. 12 — 24. 

And they took Lot, Abram’s brother’s son, (who 
dwelt in Sodom,) and his goods, and departed. And 
there came one that had escaped, and told Abram, the 
Hebrew ; for he dwelt in the plain of Mature the Aino- 
rite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner ; and these 
were confederate with Abram. And when Abram 
heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his 
trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred 
and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. And he 
divided himself against them, he and his servants, by 
night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, 
which is on the left hand of Damascus. And he brought 
back all the goods, and also brought again his brother 
Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the pee- 


MASONIG CHART. 


124 

pie. And the king of Sodom went out to meet him;, 
(after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, 
and of the kings that were with him,) at the valley oi 
Shevah, which is the king’s dale. And Melchisedek, 
king of Salem, brought forth bread and wine : and he 
was the priest of the Most High God. And he blessed 
him* and said, Blessed be Abram of the Most High 
God, who hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. 
And he gave him tithes of all. And the king of Sodom 
said to Abram, Give me the persons, and take the 
goods to thyself. And Abram said to the king of 
Sodom, I have lifted up mine hand to the Lord, the 
Most High God, the possessor of heaven and earth, 
that I will not take from a thread even to a shoe-latch- 
et ; and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest 
thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich: save 
only that which the young men have eaten, and the 
portion of the men which went with me, Aner* Eshcol 
and Mature, let them take their portion. 

Numbers vi. 22 — 26. 

And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak un- 
to Aaron, and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye 
shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them. 
The Lord bless thee, and keep thee ; the Lord make 
his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee; 
the Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give 
thee peace. 

Heb. vii. 1 — 6. 

For this Melchisedek, king of Salem, priest of the 
Most High God, (who met Abram returning from the 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


125 


Slaughter of the kings, and blessed him ; to whom also 
Abraham gave a tenth part of all ; first being, by in- 
terpretation, King of Righteousness, and after that al- 
so, King of Salem, which is. King of Peace ; without 
father, without mother, without descent; having neither 
beginning of days, nor end of life ; but made like unto 
the Son of God,) abideth a priest continually. Now 
consider how great this man was, unto whom even the 
patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. And 
verily, they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive 
the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to 
take tithes of the people, according to the law, that is, 
of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of 
Abraham. 

“ For he testifieth. Thou art a priest for ever, after 
the order of Melchisedek. 

“ And inasmuch as not without an oath, he was made 
priest. 

“For those priests (under the Levitical law) were 
made without an oath ; but this with an oath, by him 
that said unto him, The Lord sware, and will not re- 
pent, Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Mel- 
chisedek.” 

Ceremonies and Charges upon the Installation 
of the Officers of a Royal Arch Chapter. 

1. The Grand Officers will meet at a convenient 
place , and open. 

2. The subordinate Chaper will meet in the outer 
courts of their Hall , and form an avenue for the re - 
ception of the Grand Officers. 

11 * 


126 


MASONIC CHART. 


3. When formed , they will dispatch a committee io 
the place ivhere the Grand Officers are assembled, to in- 
form the Grand Marshal that the Chapter is prepared 
to receive them ; — the Grand Marshal will announce 
the committee, and introduce them to the Grand Offi- 
cers. 

4. The Grand Officers will move in procession, con- 
ducted by the committee, to the Hall of the Chapter, in 
the following order : 

Grand Tyler ; 

Two Grand Stewards; 

Representatives of subordinate Chapters, according - 
to seniority, by threes triangular ; 

Three Great Lights ; 

Orator, Chaplain, and other Clergy ; 

Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and Grand Royal 
Arch Captain ; 

Grand P. Sojourner, Grand Captain of the Host, and 
Deputy Grand High Priest ; 

Grand Scribe, Grand King, and Grand High Priest ; 

(Grand Marshal, on the left of the Procession.) 

N. B. The Grand P. Sojourner, Grand Captain of 
the Host, and Grand Royal Arch Captain, are appoint- 
ed pro tempore. 

When the Grand High Priest enters, the grand hon- 
ours are given. 

5. The Grand Secretary will then call over the 
names of the officers elect ; and the Grand High Priest 
will ask whether they accept their respective offic es. Jf 
they answer in the affirmative, he then asks the mem- 
bers whether they remain satisfied with their choice. 
If they answer in the affirmative, he directs their offi- 
cers to approach the sacred volume, and become quafi- 


HIGH FRIESTHQOt). 


W 


tied for Installation, agreeably to the 4th section of the 
4th article of the General Grand Royal Arch Consti- 
tution. 

6. The Grand Marshal will then form the whole in 
procession, and they will march through the veils into 
the inner apartment, where they will surround the al- 
tar, which is previously prepared in ample form for 
the occasion. 

7 All present will kneel, and the following prayer 
will be recited. 


Prayer . 

Almighty and Supreme High Priest of heaven and 
Earth! Who is there in heaven but thee! and who 
upon earth can stand in competition with thee ! Thy 
OMNISCIENT Mind brings all things in review, 
past, present and to come ; thine OMNIPOTENT 
Arm directs the movements of the vast creation ; thine 
OMNIPRESENT Eye pervades the secret recesses 
of every heart; thy boundless beneficence supplies us 
with every comfort and enjoyment; and thine un- 
speakable perfections and glory surpass the under- 
standing of the children of men ! Our Father, who 
art in heaven, we invoke thy benediction upon the pur- 
poses of our present assembly. Let this Chapter be 
established to thine honour : let its officers be endowed 
with wisdom to discern, and fidelity to pursue, its true 
interests; let its members be ever mindful of the duty 
they owe to their God, the obedience they owe to their 
superiors, the love they owe to their equals, and the 
good will they owe to all mankind. Let this Chapter 
be consecrated to thy glory, and its members ever 


MASONIC CHART. 


128 

exemplify their love to God by their beneficence t* 
man. 

“ Glory be to God on high.” 

Response. “Amen ! So mote it be.” 

They are then qualified in due form. 

All the Companions, except High Priests and Past 
High Priests, are then desired to withdraw, while the 
new High Priest is solemnly bound to the performance 
of his duties; and after the performance of other ne- 
cessary ceremonies, not proper to be written, they are 
permitted to return. 


8. The whole then repair to their appropriate sta- 
tions ; when the Grand Marshal will form a general 
procession , in the following order : 



Three Royal Arch Stewards, with Rods ; 
Tyler of a Blue Lodge; 

Entered Apprentices; 

Fellow Crafts ; 

Master Masons ; 

Stewards of Lodges, living Jew’els; 
Deacons having Jewels; 
Secretaries having Jewels; 
Treasurers having Jewels ; 
Wardens having Jewels ; 

M ark Master Masons ; 

M. E. Masters; 

Royal Arch Masons by three; 
Royal Masters by three; 

Select Masters by three; 

Orders of Knighthood ; 

Tyler of the new Chapter; 


BI«H PRIESTHOOB. 


129 


Members of the new Chapter, by three ; 

Three Masters of Veils; 

Secretary, Treasurer, R. A. Captain, and 
P. Sojourner carrying the Ark ; 

A Companion carrying the Pot of Incense ; 

Two Companions carrying Lights ; 

Scribe, High Priest and King ; 

Grand Chapter, as before prescribed. 

On arriving at the church, or house where the ser 
vices are to be performed, they halt, open to the right 
and left, and face inward, while the Grand Officers 
and others in succession, pass through and enter the 
house. 

9. The officers and members of the new Chapter, and 
also of the Grand Chapter , being seated , the Grand 
Marshal proclaims silence , and the ceremonies com * 
mence . 

10. An Anthem or Ode is to be performed. 

1 1 . An Oration or Address is to be delivered. 

1 2. An Ode or Piece of Music. 

*[13. The Deputy *Grand High Priest then rises 
and informs the Grand High Priest , that “ a number 
of Companions, duly instructed in the sublime myste- 
ries, being desirous of promoting the honour , and 
propagating the principles of the Art , have applied to 
the Grand Chapter for a warrant to constitute a new 
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, which having been 
obtained, they are now assembled for the purpose of 
being constituted , and having their officers installed in 
due and ancient form.~\ 

* Note. Those paragraphs which are inclosed within brack- 
ets, apply exclusively to cases when new Chapters are constitu- 
ted. and their officers instilled- for the first time. The rest ap- 
ply equally to such cases, as well as to annual Installations. 


130 


MASONIC CHART. 


[14. The Grand Marshal will then form the officers 
and members of the new Chapter in front of the Grand 
Officers ; after which , the Grand High Priest directs 
the Grand Secretary to read the warrant .] 

[15. The Grand High Priest then rises and says , 
“ By virtue of the high powers in me vested , 1 do form 
you, my respected Companions, into a regular Chapter 
of Royal Arch Masons. From henceforth you are au- 
thorized and empowered to open and hold a Lodge of 
Mark Masters, Past Masters , and Most Excellent 
Masters, and a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons ; and 
to do and perform all such things as thereunto may 
appertain ; conforming, in all your doings, to the Gen- 
eral Grand Royal Arch Constitution, and the general 
regulations of the State Grand Chapter. And may 
the God of your fathers be with you, guide and direct 
you in cdl your doings .”' ] 

16. The furniture, clothing, jewels, implements , 
utensils, fyc. belonging to the Chapter, ( having been 
previously placed in the centre, in front of the Grand 
Officers, covered,) are now uncovered, and the new 
Chapter is dedicated in due and ancient form. 

17. The Dedication then follows: the Grand Chap- 
lain saying, 

“ To our Most Excellent Patron ZERUBRABEL, 
we solemnly dedicate this Chapter. May the blessing 
of our Heavenly High Priest descend and rest upon 
its members, and may their felicity be immortal. 

“ Glory be to God on high.” 

[Response by the Companions.] 

“ As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall 
he, world without end ! Amen. 

“ So mote it be.” 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


131 


18. The Grand Marshal then says , “ lam directed 

to proclaim, and 1 do hereby proclaim this Chapter , by 
the name of Chapter , duly consecrated , consti- 

tuted and dedicated . This ,” 4*c. <§*c. 

19. ^7? Ode. a 

20. The Deputy Grand High Priest will then pre- 
sent the first officer of the new Chapter to the Grand 
High Priest , saying , 

Most Excellent Grand High Priest, 

I present you my worthy Companion , 

nominated in the warrant, to be installed High Priest 
of this [new] Chapter, I find him to be skilful in the 
royal art, and attentive to the moral precepts of our 
forefathers, and have therefore no doubt but he will 
discharge the duties of his office with fidelity. 

The Grand High Priest then addresses him as fol- 
lows : 

Most Excellent, 

I feel much satisfaction in performing my duty 
on the present occasion, by installing you into the 
office of High Priest of this [new] Chapter. It is 
an office highly honourable to all those who dili- 
gently perform the important duties annexed to it. 
Your reputed masonic knowledge, however, pre- 
cludes the necessity of a particular enumeration 
of those duties. I shall therefore only observe, 
that by a frequent recurrence to the constitution, 
and general regulations, and constant practice of 
the several sublime lectures and charges, you will 


132 


MASONIC CHART. 


be best able to fulfil them ; and I am confident that 
the Companions who are chosen to preside with 
you, will give strength to your endeavours, and 

support to your exertions. 1 shall now pro- 

pose certain questions to you, relative to the du- 
ties of your office, and to which I must request 
your unequivocal answer. 

1. Do you solemnly promise that you will re- 
double your endeavours to correct the vices, pu- 
rify the morals, and promote the happiness of those 
®f your Companions, who have attained this sub- 
lime degree ? 

2. That you will never suffer your Chapter to 
be opened, unless there be present nine regular 
Royal Arch Masons? 

3. That you will never suffer either more or less 
than three brethren to be exalted in your Chap- 
ter at one and the same time ? 

4. That you will not exalt any one to this de- 
gree, who has not shown a charitable and humane 
disposition ; or who has not made a considerable 
proficiency in the foregoing degrees ? 

5. That you will promote the general good of 
©ur order, and, on all proper occasions, be ready 
to give and receive instructions, and particularly 
from the General and State Grand Officers ? 

6. That, to the utmost of your power, you will 
preserve the solemnities of our ceremonies, and 
behave, in open Chapter, with the most profound 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


133 


respect and reverence, as an example to your 
Companions ? 

7. That you will not acknowledge or have in- 
tercourse with any Chapter that does not work un- 
der a constitutional warrant or dispensation ? 

8. That you will not admit any visitor into your 
Chapter, who lias not been exalted in a Chapter 
legally constituted, without his being first formally 
healed ? 

9. That you will observe and support such bye- 
laws as may be made by your Chapter, in con- 
formity to the General Grand Royal Arch Con- 
stitution, and the general regulations of the Grand 
Chapter ? 

10. That you will pay respect and due obedi- 
ence to the instructions of the General and State 
Grand Officers, particularly relating to the seve- 
ral Lectures and Charges, and will resign the 
chair to them, severally, when they may visit your 
Chapter ? 

1 ] . That you will support and observe the Gen- 
eral Grand Royal Arch Constitution, and the Gen- 
eral Regulations of the Grand Royal Arch Chap- 
ter, under whose authority you act . ? 

Do you submit to all these things, and do you 
promise to observe and practice them faithfully ? 

These questions being answered in the affirmative 
the Companions all kneel in due form, and the Grand 
High Priest or Grand Chaplain repeats the following, 
or some other suitable prayer. 

12 


134 


MASONIC CHART. 


fe Most holy and glorious Lord God, the Great High 
Priest of Heaven and Earth, 

“ We approach thee with reverence, and implore thy 
blessing on the Companion appointed to preside over 
this new assembly, and now prostrate before thee 
fill his heart with thy fear, that his tongue and actions 
may pronounce thy glory. Make him stedfast in thy 
service; grant him firmness of mind; animate his 
heart, and strengthen his endeavours ; may he teach 
thy judgments and thy laws ; and may the incense he 
shall put before thee, upon thine altar, prove an ac- 
ceptable sacrifice unto thee. Bless him, 0 Lord, and 
bless the work of his hands. — Accept us in mercy ; 
hear thou from Heaven thy dwelling-place, and forgive 
our transgressions. 

“ Glory be to God the Father ; as it was in the be 
ginning,” &c. 

[Response.] “ So mote it be.” 

21. The Grand High Priest will then cause the High 
Priest elect to he invested with his clothing, badges , 
Sfc. ; after which he will address him as follows , viz. 

Most Excellent, 

In consequence of your cheerful acquiescence 
with the charges, which you have heard recited, 
you are qualified for installation as the High Priest 
of this Royal Arch Chapter ; and it is incumbent 
upon me, on this occasion, to point out some of 
the particulars appertaining to* your office, duty, 
and dignity. 

All legally constituted bodies of Royal Arch 
Masons, are called Chapters ; as regular bodies 
of masons of the preceding degrees, are called 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


135 


Lodges. Every Chapter ought to assemble for 
work, at least once in three months ; and must 
consist of a High Priest, King, Scribe, Captain of 
the Host, Principal Sojourner, Royal Arch Cap- 
tain, three Grand Masters of the Veils, Treasurer, 
Secretary, and as many members as may be found 
convenient for working to advantage. 

The officers of the chapter officiate in the 
lodges, holden for conferring the preparatory de- 
grees, according to rank, as follows : viz. 

The High Priest, as Master. 

The King, as Senior Warden. 

The Scribe, as Junior Warden. 

The Captain of the Host, as Marshal or Master 
of Ceremonies. 

The Principal Sojourner, as Senior Deacon. 

The Royal Arch Captain, as Junior Deacon. 

The Master of the first Veil, as Junior Overseer. 

The Master of the second Veil, as Senior Over- 
seer. 

The Master of the third Veil, as Master Overseer. 

The Treasurer, Secretary, Chaplain, Stewards, 
and Tyler, as officers of corresponding rank. 

The High Priest of every Chapter has it in 
special charge, to see that the bye-laws of his 
Chapter, as well as the General Grand Royal Arch 
Constitution, and all the regulations of the Grand 
Chapter, are duly observed : — that all the officers 
of his Chapter perform the duties of their respec- 
tive offices faithfully, and are examples of diligence 


156 


MASONIC CHART. 


and industry to their companions ; — that true and 
accurate records of all the proceedings of the 
chapter are kept by the secretary ; — that the trea- 
surer keeps and renders exact and just accounts 
of all the monies and other property belonging to 
the Chapter ; — that the regular returns be made 
annually to the Grand Chapter ; — and that the an- 
nual dues to the Grand Chapter be regularly and 
punctually paid. He has the right and authority 
pf calling his Chapter together at pleasure, upon 
any emergency or occurrence, which in his judg- 
ment may require their meeting. It is his privi- 
lege and duty, together with the king and scribe, 
to attend the meetings of the Grand Chapter, either 
in person or by proxy ; and the well-being of the 
institution requires that his duty should on no oc- 
casion be omitted. 

The office of High Priest is a station highly 
honourable to all those, who diligently perform 
the important duties annexed to it. By a frequent 
recurrence to the constitution and general regu- 
lations, and a constant practice of the several sub- 
lime lectures and charges, you will be best enabled 
to fulfil those duties ; and I am confident that the 
companions, who are chosen to preside with you, 
will give strength to your endeavours, and support 
to your exertions. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOB. 


137 


Let the Mitre with which you are invested, re- 
mind you of the dignity of the office you sustain, 
and its inscription impress upon your mind a 
sense of your dependence upon God ; — that per- 
fection is not given unto man upon earth, and 
that perfect holiness belongeth alone unto the 
Lord. 

The Breast-Plate , with which you are deco- 
rated, in imitation of that upon which were en- 
graven the names of the twelve tribes, and worn 
by the High Priest of Israel, is to teach you that 
you are always to bear in mind your responsibility 
to the laws and ordinances of the institution, and 
that the honour and interests of your Chapter and 
its members, should be always near your heart. 

The various colours of the Robes you wear, are 
emblematical of every grace and virtue which can 
adorn and beautify the human mind ; each of 
which will be briefly illustrated in the course of 
the charges to be delivered to your subordinate 
officers. 

You will now take charge of your officers, 
standing upon their right, and present them seve- 
rally in succession to the Deputy Grand High 
Priest, by whom they will be presented to me for 
installation. 

22. The High Priest of the Chapter will then pre- 
sent his second officer to the Deputy Grand High Priest , 
who will present him to the Grand High Priest in the 
words of the Constitution. The Grand High Priest , 
12 * 


138 


MASONIC CHARf. 


will then ask him whether he has attended to the ancient 
charges and regulations before recited to his superior 
officer: if he answers in the affirmative , he is asked 
whether he fully and freely assents to the same : if he 
answers in the affirmative , the Grand High Priest di- 
rects his deputy to invest him with his clothing , £,'C. and 
then addresses him as follows , viz. 

CHARGE to the Second Officer , or King. 
Excellent Companion, 

The important station to which you are elected 
in this Chapter, requires from you exemplary con- 
duct; its duties demand your most assiduous at- 
tention ; you are to second and support your chief 
in all the requirements of his office ; and should 
casualties at any time prevent his attendance, 3^011 
are to succeed him in the performance of his du- 
ties. 

Your badge (the Level surmounted by a crown) 
should remind you, that although you are the rep- 
resentative of a King, and exalted by office above 
your Companions, yet that you remain upon a 
level with them, as respects your duty to God, to 
your neighbour, and to yourself ; that you are 
equally bound with them, to be obedient to the 
laws and ordinances of the institution, to be chari- 
table, humane and just, and to seek every occa- 
sion of doing good. 

Your office teaches a striking lesson of humility. 
The! institutions of political society teach us to 
consider the king as the chief of created beings. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


139 


and that the first duty of his subjects, is to obey 
his mandates : — but the institutions of our sub- 
lime degrees, by placing the King in a situation 
subordinate to the High Priest, teaches us that 
our duty to God is paramount to all other duties, 
and should ever claim the priority of our obedi- 
ence to man ; and that however strongly we may 
be bound to obey the laws of civil society, yet 
that those laws, to be just, should never intermed- 
dle with matters of conscience, nor dictate articles 
of faith. 

The Scarlet Robe , an emblem of imperial dig- 
nity, should remind you of the paternal concern 
you should ever feel for the welfare of your Chap- 
ter, and the fervency and zeal with which you 
should endeavour to promote its prosperity. 

In presenting to you the Crown, which is an 
emblem of royalty, I would remind you, that to 
reign sovereign in the hearts and affections of men, 
must be far more grateful to a generous and be- 
nevolent mind, than to rule over their lives and 
fortunes ; and that to enable you to enjoy this pre- 
eminence with honour and satisfaction, you must 
subject your own passions and prejudices to the do- 
minion of reason and charity. 

You are entitled to the second seat in the coun- 
cil of your Companions. Let the bright example 
of your illustrious predecessor in the Grand Coun- 
cil at Jerusalem, stimulate you to the faithful dis- 


140 


MASONIC CHART 


charge of your duties ; and when the King of 
kings shall summon you into his immediate pre- 
sence, from his hand may you receive a crown of 
glory , which shall never fade away. 

23 . The King will then retire to the line of officers , 
and the Scribe will be presented in the manner before 
mentioned. After his investiture, the Grand High 
Priest will address him as follows, viz . 

CHARGE to the Third Officer , or Scribe. 
Excellent Companion, 

The office of Scribe, to which you are elected, 
is very important and respectable. In the absence 
of your superior officers, you are bound to suc- 
ceed them, and to perform their duties. The pur- 
poses of the institution ought never to suffer for 
want of intelligence in its proper officers ; you 
will therefore perceive the necessity there is of 
your possessing such qualifications as will enable 
you to accomplish those duties which are incum- 
bent upon you, in your appropriate station, as well 
as those which may occasionally devolve on you, 
by the absence of your superiors. 

The Purple Robe , with which you are invested, 
is an emblem of union , and is calculated to re- 
mind you that the harmony and unanimity of the 
Chapter should be y^our constant aim ; and to this 
end you are studiously to avoid all occasions of 
giving offence, or countenancing any thing that 
may create divisions or dissentions. You are, by 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


141 


all means iii your power, to endeavour to establish 
a permanent union and good understanding among 
all orders and degrees of masonry; and, as the 
glorious sun, at its meridian height, dispels the mist 
and clouds which obscure the horizon, so may* 
your exertions tend to dissipate the gloom of jeal- 
ousy and discord, whenever they may appear. 

Your badge (a Plumb-rule surmounted by the 
Turban ,) is an emblem of rectitude and vigilance; 
and while you stand as a watchman upon the 
tower, to guard y our Companions against the ap- 
proach of those enemies of human felicity, intem- 
perance and excess , let this faithful monitor ever 
remind you to walk uprightly in your station ; ad- 
monishing and animating your Companions to 
fidelity and industry while at labour, and to tem- 
perance and moderation while at refreshment. — 
And, when the Great Watchman of Israel, whose 
eye never slumbers nor sleeps, shall relieve you 
from your post on earth, may he permit you in 
heaven to participate in that food and refreshment 
which is 

“ Such as the saints in glory love, 

“ And such as angels eat.” 

£4. The Scribe will then retire to the line of officeis> 
mul the next officer be presented as before . 


142 MASONIC CHART. 

CHARGE to the Fourth Officer , or Captain of 
the Host * 

Companion, 

The office with which you are entrusted, is of 
high importance, and demands your most zealous 
consideration. The preservation of the most essen- 
tial traits of our ancient customs, usages and land- 
marks, are within your province ; and it is indis- 
pensably necessary, that the part assigned to you, 
in the immediate practice of our rites and ceremo- 
nies, should be perfectly understood, and correctly 
administered. 

Your office corresponds with that of marshal, or 
master of ceremonies. You are to superintend all 
processions of your Chapter, when moving as a 
distinct body, either in public or private; and as 
the world can only judge of our private discipline 
by our public deportment, you will be careful that 
the utmost order and decorum be observed on all 
such occasions. You will ever be attentive to the 
commands of your chief, and always near at hand 
to see them duly executed. I invest you with the 
badge of your office, and presume that you will 
give to your duties all that study and attention 
which their importance demands. 

25 . He will then retire to the line of officers , and the 
next officer unit be presented. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


145 


CHARGE to the Fifth Officer , or Principal 
Sojourner . 

Companion, 

The office confided to you, though subordinate 
in degree, is equal in importance to any in the 
. Chapter, that of your chief alone excepted. Your 
office corresponds with that of senior deacon , in 
the preparatory degrees. Among the duties re- 
quired of you, the preparation and introduction 
of candidates are not the least. As in our inter- 
course with the w r orld, experience teaches that 
first impressions are often the most durable, and 
the most difficult to eradicate ; so it is of great 
importance, in all cases, that those impressions 
should be correct and just : hence it is essential 
that the officer, who brings the blind by a way 
that they knew not, and leads them in paths that 
they have not known, should always be well qual- 
ified to make darkness light before them, and 
crooked things strait. 

Your Robe of Office is an emblem of humility $ 
and teaches that in the prosecution of a laudable 
undertaking, we should never decline taking any 
part that may be assigned us, although it may be 
the most difficult or dangerous. 

The rose-coloured tesselated Border , adorning 
the robe, is an emblem of ardour and persever- 
ance, and signifies, that when we have engaged in 
a virtuous course, notwithstanding all the impedi- 
ments, hardships, and trials, we may be destined 


144 


MASONIC CHARI*. 


to encounter, vve should endure them all with for- 
titude, and ardently persevere unto the end ; rest- 
ing assured of receiving, at the termination of our 
labours, a noble and glorious reward. Your past 
exertions will be considered as a pledge of your 
future assiduity in the faithful discharge of your 
duties. 

26 . He will then retire to the line of officers , and 
the next officer is presented. 

CHARGE to the Sixth Officer , or Royal Arch 
Captain . 

Companion, 

The well-known duties of your station require 
but little elucidation. Your office in the prepara- 
tory degrees corresponds with that of junior dea- 
con. It is your province, conjointly with the 
Captain of the Host, to attend the examination of 
all visitors, and to take care that none are per- 
mitted to enter the Chapter, but such as have 
travelled the rugged path of trial, and evinced 
their title to our favour and friendship. You will 
be attentive to obey the commands of the Cap- 
tain of the Host, during the introduction of stran- 
gers among the workmen ; and should they be 
permitted to pass your post, may they by him 
be introduced into the presence of the Grand 
Council. 

The White Banner , entrusted to your care, is 
emblematical of that purity of heart and recti- 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


145 


tade of conduct, which ought to actuate all those 
who pass the white veil of the sanctuary. I give 
it to you strongly in charge, never to suffer any 
one to pass your post, without the signet of truth . 

I present you the badge of your office, in* ex- 
pectation of your performing your duties with in- 
telligence, assiduity and propriety. 

27. He then retires , and the Three Grand Masters of 
the Veils are presented together . 

CHARGE to the Master of the Third Veil . 
Companion, 

I present you with the Scarlet Banner , which is 
the ensign of your office, and with a sword to pro- 
tect and defend the same. The rich and beautiful 
colour of your banner is emblematical of ferv ency 
and zeal ; it is the appropriate colour of the Royal 
Arch degree ; it admonishes us, that we should be 
fervent in the exercise of our devotions to God, 
and zealous in our endeavours to promote the hap- 
piness of man. 

CHARGE to the Master of the Second Veil . 
Companion, 

I invest you with the Purple Banner , which is 
the ensign of your office, and arm you with a 
sword, to enable you to maintain its honour. 

The colour of your banner is produced by a 
due mixture of blue and scarlet; the former of 
which is the characteristic colour of the symbolic 
13 


146 


MASONIC CHART, 


or first three degrees of masonry , and the latter* 
that of the royal arch degree . It is an emblem of 
union , and is the characteristic colour of the inter- 
mediate degrees. It admonishes us to cultivate 
and improve that spirit of union and harmony, be- 
tween the brethren of the symbolic degrees and the 
companions of the sublime degrees, which should 
ever distinguish the members of a society founded 
upon the principles of everlasting truth and univer- 
sal philanthropy. 

CHARGE to the Master of the First Veil . 
Companion, 

I invest you with the Blue Banner , which is the 
ensign of your office, and a sword for its defence 
and protection. The colour of your banner is 
one of the most durable and beautiful in nature. 
It is the appropriate colour adopted and worn by 
our ancient brethren of the three symbolic degrees, 
and is the 'peculiar characteristic of an institution 
which has stood the test of ages, and which is as 
much distinguished by the durability of its mate- 
rials or principles, as by the beauty of its super- 
structure. It is an emblem of universal friendship 
and benevolence ; and instructs us, that in the mind 
of a mason those virtues should be as expansive as 
the blue arch of heaven itself. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


147 


CHARGE to the three Masters of the Veils , as 
Overseers . 

Companions, 

Those who are placed as overseers of any work, 
should be well qualified to judge of its beauties 
and deformities, its excellencies and defects ; they 
should be capable of estimating the former, and 
amending the latter. This consideration should 
induce you to cultivate and improve all those quali- 
fications with which you are already endowed, as 
well as to persevere in your endeavours to acquire 
those in which you are deficient. Let the various 
colours of the banners committed to your charge, 
admonish you to the exercise of the several virtues 
of which they are emblematic ; and you are to en- 
join the practice of those virtues upon all who shall 
present themselves, or the work of their hands, for 
your inspection . Let no work receive your appro- 
bation, but such as is calculated to adorn and 
strengthen the masonic edifice. Be industrious 
and faithful in practising and disseminating a 
knowledge of the true and perfect work , which 
alone can stand the test of the Grand Overseer’s 
Square , in the great day of trial and retribution. 
Then, although every rod should become a ser- 
pent , and every serpent an enemy to this institu- 
tion, yet shall their utmost exertions to destroy its 
reputation, or sap its foundation, become as impo- 
tent as the leprous hand , or as water spilled upon 
the ground, which cannot be gathered up agaim 


143 


JT A SONIC CHART. 


28. They then retire , and the Treasurer is pre- 
sented, 

CHARGE to the Treasurer. 
Companion, 

You are elected Treasurer of this Chapter, and 
I have the pleasure of investing you with the 
badge of your office. The qualities which should 
recommend a Treasurer, are accuracy and fidelity; 
accuracy, in keeping a fair and minute account of 
all receipts and disbursements ; fidelity, in care- 
fully preserving all the property and funds of the 
Chapter, that may be placed in his hands, and ren- 
dering a just account of the same, whenever he is 
called upon for that purpose. I presume that your 
respect for the institution, your attachment to the 
interests of your Chapter, and your regard for a 
good name, which is better than precious ointment, 
will prompt you to the faithful discharge of the du- 
ties of your office. 

29. He then retires , and the Secretary is presented. 

CHARGE to the Secretary. 
Companion, 

I with pleasure invest you with your badge as 
Secretary of this Chapter. The qualities which 
should recommend a Secretary, are, promptitude 
in issuing the notifications and orders of his supe- 
rior officers ; punctuality in attending the convoca- 
tions of the Chapter ; correctness in recording their 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


149 


proceedings ; judgment in discriminating between 
what is proper and what is improper to be commit- 
ted to writing ; regularity in making his annual re- 
turns to -he Grand Chapter ; integrity, in account- 
ing for all monies that may pass through his hands ; 
and fidelity in paying the same over into the hands 
of the treasurer. The possession of these good 
qualities, I presume, has designated you a suitable 
candidate for this important office ; and I cannot 
entertain a doubt that you will discharge its duties 
beneficially to the Chapter, and honourably to 
yourself. And when you shall have completed the 
record of your transactions here below, and finished 
the term of your probation, may you be admitted 
into the celestial Grand Chapter of saints and an- 
gels, and find your name recorded in the book of life 
eternal . 

30 . He then retires , and the Chaplain is presented . 
CHARGE to the Chaplain . 

“E. and Rev. Companion, 

“You are appointed Chaplain of this Chapter; 
and I now invest you with this circular jewel, the 
badge of your office. It is emblematical of eter- 
nity, and reminds us that here is not our abiding 
place. Your inclination will undoubtedly con- 
spire with your duty, when you perform in the 
Chapter those solemn services which created be- 
ings should constantly render to their infinite Cre- 
13 * 


150 


MASONIC CHAIffV 


ator ; and which, when offered by one whose holy 
profession is, “to point to heaven and lead the 
way,” may, by refining our morals, strengthening 
our virtues, and purifying our minds, prepare us 
for admission into the society of those above, 
whose happiness will be as endless as it is perfect.” 

31. He then retires, and the Stewards are presented* 
CHARGE to the Stewards, 
Companions, 

You being elected Stewards of this Chapter, I 
with pleasure invest you with the badges of your 
office. It is your province to see that every ne- 
cessary preparation is made for the convenience 
and accommodation of the Chapter, previous to 
the time appointed for meeting. You are to see 
that the clothing, implements and furniture of 
each degree respectively, are properly disposed, 
and in suitable array for use, whenever they may 
be required, and that they are secured, and proper 
care taken of them, when the business of the 
Chapter is over. You are to see that necessary 
refreshments are provided, and that all your com- 
panions, and particularly visitors, are suitably ac- 
commodated and supplied. You are to be frugal 
and prudent in your disbursements, and to be care- 
ful that no extravagance or waste is committed in 
your department; and when you have faithfully 
fulfilled your stewardship here below, may you re-* 

% 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD, 


151 


seive from heaven the happy greeting of “ Well 
done, good and faithful servants.” 

32 . They then retire , and the Tyler is presented , 

CHARGE to the Tyler. 

Companion," 

You are appointed Tyler of this Chapter, and I 
invest you with the badge, and this implement of 
your office. As the sword is placed in the hands 
of the Tyler, to enable him effectually to guard 
against the approach of all cowans and evesdrop - 
j pers, and suffer none to pass or repass but such as 
are duly qualified; so it should morally serve as 
a constant admonition to us to set a guard at the 
entrance of our thoughts ; to place a watch at the 
door of our lips ; to post a centinel at the avenue 
of our actions ; thereby excluding every unquali- 
fied and unworthy thought, word and deed ; and 
preserving consciences void of offence towards God 
and towards man. 

As the first application from visitors for admis-* 
sion into the Chapter is generally made to the Ty- 
ler at the door, your station will often present you 
to the observation of strangers : it is therefore es- 
sentially necessary that he who sustains the office 
with which you are entrusted, should be a man of 
good morals, steady habits, strict discipline, tem- 
perate, affable, and discreet. I trust that a just 
regard for the honour and reputation of the insla- 


1 52 


MASONIC CHART o 


tution will ever induce you to perform with fidelity 
the trust reposed in you ; and when the door of 
this earthly tabernacle shall be closed, may you 
find an abundant entrance through the gates into 
the temple and city of our God* 

S3. He will then retire , and then follows an 
ADDRESS to the High Priest . 

M- £• Companion, 

Having been honoured with the free suffrages of 
the members of this Chapter, you are elected to 
the most important office which is within their 
power to bestow. This expression of their esteem 
and respect should draw from you corresponding 
sensations; and your demeanor should be such as 
to repay the honour they have so conspicuously 
conferred upon you, by an honourable ^nd faithful 
discharge of the duties of your office. The sta- 
tion you are called to fill, is important, not only as 
it respects the correct practice of our rites and 
ceremonies, and the internal economy of the Chap- 
ter over which you preside ; but the public repu- 
tation of the institution will be generally found to 
rise or fall according to the skill, fidelity and dis- 
cretion, w ith which its concerns are managed, and 
in proportion as the characters and conduct of its 
principal officers are estimable or censurable. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD. 


15,3 


You have accepted a trust, to which is attached a 
weight of responsibility that will require all your 
efforts to discharge honourably to yourself, and 
satisfactorily to the Chapter. You are to see that 
your officers are capable and faithful in the exercise 
of their offices. Should they lack ability, you are 
expected to supply their defects ; you are to watch 
carefully the progress of their performances, and 
to see that the long established customs of the in- 
stitution suffer no derangement in their hands. 
You are to have a careful eye over the general 
conduct of the Chapter; see that due order and 
subordination is observed on all occasions ; that the 
members are properly instructed; that due solem- 
nity be observed in the practice of our rites ; that 
no improper levity be permitted at any time, but 
more especially at the introduction of strangers 
among the workmen . 

In fine, you are to be an example to your offi- 
cers and members, which they need not hesitate 
to follow ; thus securing to yourself the favour of 
Heaven, and the applause of your brethren and; 
companions. 


154 


MASONIC CHART. 


ADDRESS to the Officers generally. 

Companions in Office, 

Precept and example should ever advance with 
equal pace. Those moral duties which you are 
required to teach unto others, you should never 
neglect to practice yourselves. 

Do you desire that the demeanor of your equals 
and inferiors towards you, should be marked with 
deference and respect? Be sure that you omit no 
opportunity of furnishing them with examples in 
your own conduct towards your superiors. Do 
you desire to obtain instruction from those who are 
more wise or better informed than yourselves ? Be . 
sure that you are always ready to impart of your 
knowledge to those within your sphere, who stand 
in need of, and are entitled to receive it. Do 
you desire distinction among your companions ? 
Be sure that your claims to preferment are found- 
ed upon superior attainments ; let no ambitious 
passion be suffered to induce you to envy or sup- 
plant a companion who may be considered as bet- 
ter qualified for promotion than yourselves ; but 
rather let a laudable emulation induce you to strive 
to excel each other in improvement and discipline ; 
ever remembering, that he, who faithfully performs 
his duty, even in a subordinate or private station,, 
is as justly entitled to esteem and respect, as he 
who is invested with supreme authority. 


HIGH PRIESTHOOD, 


155 


ADDRESS to the Chapter at large . 
Companions, 

The exercise and management of the sublime 
degrees of masonry in your Chapter hitherto, are 
so highly appreciated, and the good reputation of 
the Chapter so well established, that 1 must pre- 
sume these considerations alone, were there no 
others of greater magnitude, would be sufficient 
to induce you to preserve and perpetuate this valu- 
able and honourable character. But when to these 
is added the pleasure which every philanthropic 
heart must feel in doing good, in promoting good 
order, in diffusing light and knowledge, in culti- 
vating Masonic and Christian charity, which are 
the great objects of this sublime institution, I can- 
not doubt that your future conduct, and that of 
your successors, will be calculated still to increase 
the lustre of your justly esteemed reputation. 

May your chapter become beautiful as the tem- 
ple, peaceful as the ark, and sacred as its most holy 
place . May your oblations of piety and praise be 
grateful as the incense ; your love warm as its 
flame, and your charity diffusive as its fragrance, 
tylay your hearts be pure as the altar, and your 
conduct acceptable as the offering . May the ex- 
ercises of your charity be as constant as the return- 
ing wants of the distressed widow and helpless or- 
phan. May the approbation of Heaven be your 
encouragement, and the testimony of a good con- 
science your support : may you be endowed with 


156 


MASONIC CHART. 


©very good and perfect gift, while travelling the 
rigged path of life, and finally be admitted within 
tiie veil of heaven, to the full enjoyment of life 
eternal. So mote it be. Amen. 

34 . The officers and members of the Chapter will 
then pass in review in front of the Grand Officers , 
with their hands crossed on their breasts , bowing as 
they pass. 

35 . The Grand Marshal will then proclaim the 

Chapter , by the name of , to be regularly 

constituted , and its officers duly installed . ' 

36 . The ceremonies conclude with an Ode, or appro- 
priate piece of music. 

37 . The procession is then formed, when they return 
to the place from whence they set out. 

38 . When the Grand Officers retire, the Chapter will 
form an avenue for them to pass through, and salute 
them with the grand honours. The two bodies then 
separately dose their respective Chapters. 


CONSTITUTION 


OF THE 

General Grand Royal Arch Chapter 

OF THE 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 


ARTICLE I. 

OF THE GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER. 

Sect. 1 . THERE shall be a General Grand 
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons for the United States 
of America, which shall be holden as is hereinafter di- 
rected, and shall consist of a General Grand High 
Priest, Deputy General Grand High Priest, General 
Grand King, General Grand Scribe, Secretary, Trea- 
surer, Chaplain, and Marshal; and likewise of the 
several Grand and Deputy Grand High Priests, Kings, 
and Scribes, for the time being, of the several State 
Grand Chapters, under the jurisdiction of this Gene- 
ral Grand Chapter; and of the Past General Grand 
High Priests, Deputy General Grand High Priests, 
Kings, and Scribes, of the said General Grand Chap- 
ter; and the Aforesaid officers, or their proxies, shall 
be the only members and voters in said General 
Grand Chapter. And no person shall be constituted 
14 


158 


CONSTITUTION 


a proxy, unless he be a present or past officer of thi> 
or a State Grand Chapter. 

Sect. 2. The General Grand Chapter shall meet 
septennially, on the second Thursday in September, 
for the choice of officers, and other business: dating 
from the second Thursday in September, A. D. 18G5, 
at such place as may, from time to time, be appointed. 

Sect. S. A special meeting of the General Grand 
Chapter shall be called whenever the General Grand 
High Priest, Deputy General Grand High Priest, 
General Grand King, and General Grand Scribe, or 
any two of them, may deem it necessary ; and also 
whenever it may be required by a majoi'i ty of the 
Grand Chapters of the States aforesaid, provided such 
requisition be made known in writing, by the said 
Grand Chapters respectively, to the General Grand 
High Priest, Deputy General Grand High Priest, 
King or Scribe. — And it shall be the duty of the said 
General Officers, and they are each of them severally 
authorized, empowered and directed, upon receiving 
official notice of such requisition from a majority of 
the General Grand Chapters aforesaid, to appoint a 
time and place of meeting, and notify each of the State. 
Grand Chapters thereof accordingly. 

Sect. 4. It shall be incumbent on the General Grand 
High Priest, Deputy General Grand High Priest, 
General Grand King, and General Grand Scribe, seve 
rally, to improve and perfect themselves in the sub 
lime Arts, and work of Mark Masters, Past Masters, 
Most Excellent Masters, and Royal Arch Masons ; to 
make themselves Masters of the several Masonic Lee- 


CONSTITUTION. 


159 


tares and Ancient Charges ; — to consult with each 
mother, and with the Grand and Deputy Grand High 
Priests, Kings and Scribes of the several States afore- 
said, for the purpose of adopting measures suitable and 
proper for diffusing a knowledge of the said Lectures 
and Charges, and an uniform mode of working , in the 
several Chapters and Lodges throughout this jurisdic- 
tion ; and the better to effect this laudable purpose, the 
aforesaid General Grand Officers are severally hereby 
authorized, and empowered, to visit and preside in 
any and every Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and 
Lodge of Most Excellent, Past, or Mark Master Ma- 
sons, throughout the said States, and to give such in- 
structions and directions as the good of the Fraternity 
may require; always adhering to the ancient land- 
marks of the order. 

Sect. 5. In all cases of the absence of any Officer 
from any body of masons, instituted or holden by vir- 
tue of this Constitution, the Officer next in rank shall 
succeed his superior ; unless through courtesy said Of- 
ficer should decline in favour of a past superior Officer 
present. — And in case of the absence of all the Officers 
from any legal meeting of either of the bodies afore- 
said, the Members present, according to seniority and 
abilities, shall fill the several Offices. 

Sect. 6. In every Chapter or Lodge of Masons, in- 
stituted or holden by virtue of this Constitution, all 
questions (except upon the admission of members or 
candidates) shall be determined by a majority of votes; 
the presiding Officer for the time being, being entitled 
to vote, if a Member ; and in case the votes should at 


160 


CONSTITUTION. 


any time be equally divided, the presiding Officer as 
aforesaid, shall give the casting vote. 

'Sect. 7. The General Grand Royal Arch Chapter 
shall be competent (on concurrence of two thirds of its 
members present) at any time hereafter, to revise, 
amend and alter this Constitution. 

Sect. 8. In case any casualty should, at any time 
hereafter, prevent the septennial election of Officers, 
the several General Grand Officers shall sustain their 
respective Offices until successors are duly elected and 
qualified. 

Sect. 9. The General Grand High Priest, Deputy 
General Grand High Priest, General Grand King, and 
General Grand Scribe, shall severally have power and 
authority to institute new Royal Arch Chapters, and 
Lodges of the subordinate degrees, in any State in 
which there is not a Grand Chapter regularly estab- 
lished. But no new Chapter shall be instituted in any 
State wherein there is a Chapter or Chapters holden 
under the authority of this Constitution, without a re- 
commendation from the Chapter nearest the residence 
of the petitioners. — The fees for instituting a new Roy- 
al Arch Chapter, with the subordinate degrees, shall 
be ninety dollars; and for a new Mark Master’s 
Lodge, twenty dollars ; exclusive of such compensa- 
tion to the Grand Secretary, as the Grand Officers 
aforesaid may deem reasonable. 


CONSTITUTION. 


161 


ARTICLE II. 

OF THE STATE GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS. 

Sect. 1. The state grand chapters shall seve - 
rally consist of a Grand High Priest, Deputy Grand 
High Priest, Grand King, Grand Scribe, Grand Secre- 
tary, Grand Treasurer, Grand Chaplain, and Grand 
Marshal, and likewise of the High Priests, Kings and 
Scribes, for the time being, of the several Chapters 
over which they shall respectively preside, and of the 
Past Grand and Deputy Grand High Priests, Kings 
and Scribes of the said Grand Chapters ; and the said 
enumerated Officers (or their proxies) shall be the 
only members and voters in the said Grand Chapters 
respectively. 

Sect. 2. The State Grand Chapters shall severally 
be holden at least once in every year, at such times and 
places as they shall respectively direct; and the 
Grand or Deputy Grand High Priests respectively, 
for the time being, may at any time call a special 
meeting, to be holden at such place as they shall seve- 
rally think proper to appoint. 

Sect. 3. The Officers of the State Grand Chapters 
shall be chosen annually, by ballot, at such time and 
place as the said Grand Chapters shall respectively di- 
rect. 

Sect. 4. The several State Grand Chapters (sub- 
ject to the provisions of this Constitution) shall have 
the sole government and superintendence of the seve- 
ral Royal Arch Chapters, and Lodges of Most Excel- 
lent, Past and Mark Master Masons, within their re- 
nt 14* 


m 


CONSTITUTION. 


spective jurisdictions ; to assign their limits, and settle 
controversies that may happen between them ; — and 
shall have power, under their respective seals, and the 
sign manual of their respective Grand or Deputy 
Grand High Priests, Kings and Scribes, (or their legal 
proxies,) attested by their respective Secretaries, to 
constitute new Chapters of Royal Arch Masons, and 
Lodges of Most Excellent, Past, and Mark Master 
Masons, within their respective jurisdictions. 

Sect. 5. The Grand and Deputy Grand High 
Priests severally, shall have the power and authority, 
whenever they shall deem it inexpedient, (during the 
recess of the Grand Chapter of which they are offi- 
cers,) to grant Letters of Dispensation, under their 
respective hands, and private seals, to a competent 
number of petitioners (possessing the qualifications re- 
quired by the 9th Section of the 2d Article,) empow- 
ering them to open a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, 
and Lodge of Most Excellent, Past and Mark Master 
Masons, for a certain specified term of time : provided, 
that the said term of time shall not extend beyond the 
next meeting of the Grand Chapter of the State in 
which such Dispensation shall be granted ; and pro- 
vided further, that the same fees as are required by 
this Constitution for Warrants, shall be first deposited 
in the hands of the Grand Treasurer. — And in all ca- 
ses of such Dispensations, the Grand or Deputy Grand 
High Priests respectively, who may grant the same, 
shall make report thereof, at the next stated meeting of 
the Grand Chapter of their respective jurisdictions, 
when the said Grand Chapters, respectively, may el* 


CONSTITUTION. 


165 


ther continue or recall the said Dispensations, or may 
grant the petitioners a warrant of Constitution : And 
in case such warrant shall be granted, the fees first 
deposited, shall be credited in payment for the same ; 
but if a warrant should not be granted, nor the dis- 
pensation continued, the said fees shall be refunded to 
the petitioners, excepting only such part thereof as 
shall have been actually expended by means of their 
application. 

Sect. 6. The several State Grand Chapters shall 
possess authority, upon the institution of new Royal 
Arch Chapters, or Lodges of Mark Masters, within 
their respective jurisdictions, to require the payment 
of such fees as they may deem expedient and proper ; 
which said fees shall be advanced and paid into the 
Treasury before a warrant or charter shall be issued. 

Sect. 7. No warrant shall be granted, for institu- 
ting Lodges of Most Excellent or Past Masters, inde- 
pendent of a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. 

Sect. 8. The Grand Chapters severally, shall have 
power to require from the several Chapters and Lodg- 
es under their respective jurisdictions, such reasonable 
proportion of sums, received by them for the exaltation 
or advancement of candidates, and such certain annu- 
al sums from their respective members, as by their or- 
dinances or regulations shall hereafter be appointed; 
all which said sums or dues shall be made good, and 
paid annually, by the said Chapters and Lodges re- 
spectively, into the Grand Treasury of the Grand 
Chapter under which they hold their authority, on Or 


164 


CONSTITUTION. 


before the first day of the respective annual meeting? 
of the said Grand Chapters. 

Sect. 9. No warrant for the institution of a new 
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons shall be granted, ex- 
cept upon the petition of nine regular Royal Arch Ma- 
sons ; which petition shall be accompanied by a certifi- 
cate from the Chapter nearest to the place where the 
new Chapter is intended to be opened, vouching for 
the moral characters, and masonic abilities, of the peti- 
tioners, and recommending to the Grand Chapter un- 
der whose authority they act, to grant their prayer. 
And no warrrant for the institution of a Lodge of Mark 
Master Masons shall be granted, except upon the pe- 
tition of (at least) five regular Mark Master Masons, 
accompanied by vouchers from the nearest Lodge of 
that degree, similar to those required upon the institu- 
tion of a Chapter. 

Sect. 10. The Grand Secretaries of the State Grand 
Chapters, shall severally make an annual communica- 
tion to each other, and also to the General Grand Sec- 
retary, containing a list of Grand Officers, and all such 
other matters as may be deemed necessary for the mu- 
tual information of the said Grand Chapters. And the 
said Grand Secretaries shall also regularly transmit to 
the General Grand Secretary, a copy of all their by- 
laws and regulations. 

Sect. 11 . Whenever there shall have been three, or 
more, Royal Arch Chapters, instituted in any State, 
by virtue of authority derived from this Constitution, 
a Grand Chapter may be formed in such State, (with 
the approbation of one or more of the General Grand 


CONSTITUTION. 


165 


Officers,) by the High Priests, Kings and Scribes of 
the said Chapters, who shall be authorized to elect the 
Grand Officers. Provided always, that no new State 
Grand Chapter shall be formed until after the expira- 
tion of one year from the establishment of the junior 
Chapter in such State. 

Sect. 12. The several Grand and Deputy Grand 
High Priests, Kings and Scribes, for the time being, of 
the several State Grand Chapters, are bound to the 
performance of the same duties, and are invested with 
the same powers and prerogatives, throughout their 
respective jurisdictions, as are prescribed to the Gene- 
ral Grand Officers, in the 4th Section, 1st Article, of 
this Constitution. 

Sect. 13. The jurisdiction of the several State 
Grand Chapters, shall not extend beyond the limits of 
the State in which they shall respectively be holden. 

ARTICLE III. 

OF THE SUBORDINATE CHAPTERS AND LODGES. 

Sect. 1 . All legally constituted assemblies of Roy- 
al Arch Masons are called Chapters; as regular bo- 
dies of Mark Masters, Past Masters, and Most Ex- 
cellent Masters, are called Lodges. Every Chapter 
ought to assemble for work at least once in every three 
months; and must consist of an High Priest, King, 
Scribe, Captain of the Host, Principal Sojourner, Roy- 
al Arch Captain, three Grand Masters, Secretary, 
Treasurer, and as many Members as may be found 
convenient for working to advantage. 


166 


CONSTITUTION. 


Sect. 2. Every Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and 
Lodge of Mark Master Masons, throughout this juris- 
diction, shall have a Warrant of Constitution from the 
Grand Chapter of the State in which they may respec- 
tively be holden, or a Warrant from one of the Gene- 
ral Grant! Officers. And no Chapter or Lodge shall 
be deemed legal without such warrant; and Masonic 
communication (either public or private) is hereby in- 
terdicted and forbidden, between any Chapter or 
Lodge under this jurisdiction, or any member of either 
of them, and any Chapter, Lodge or Assembly, that 
may be so illegally formed, opened or holden, without 
such warrant, or any or either of their members, or 
any person exalted or advanced in such illegal Chap- 
ter or Lodge. But nothing in this Section shall be con- 
strued to affect any Chapter or Lodge which was es- 
tablished before the adoption of the Grand Royal Arch 
Constitution at Hartford, (on the 27th day of January, 
A. D. 1798.) 

Sect. 3. Whenever a Warrant is issued for insti- 
tuting a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, with a power 
in said Warrant to open and hold a Lodge of Most Ex- 
cellent, Past, and Mark Master Masons, the High 
Priest, King and Scribe, for the time being, of such 
Chapter, shall be the Master and Wardens in said 
Lodges, according to seniority. 

Sect. 4. All applications for the exaltation or ad- 
vancement of Candidates, in any Chapter or Lodge, 
under this jurisdiction, shall lie over, at least one 
meeting, for the consideration of the members. 

Sect. 5. No mason shall be a member of two sepa- 


CONSTITUTION. 


167 


Bate and distinct bodies, of the same denomination, at 
one and the same time. 

Sest. 6 . No Chapter shall be removed, without the 
knowledge of the High Priest, nor any motion made 
for that purpose in his absence ; but if the High Priest 
be present, and a motion is made and seconded, for re- 
moving the Chapter to some more convenient place, 
(within the limits prescribed in their Warrant,) the 
High Priest shall forthwith cause notifications to be 
issued to all the members, informing them of the mo- 
tion for removal, and of the time and place when the 
question is to be determined ; which notice shall be 
issued at least ten days previous to the appointed 
meeting. But if the High Priest (after motion duly 
made and seconded as aforesaid) should refuse or neg- 
lect to cause the notices to be issued as aforesaid, the 
officer next in rank, who may be present at the next 
regular meeting following, (upon motion made and se- 
conded for that purpose,) may in like manner issue the 
said notices. 

Sect. 7 . All Mark Master Masons’ Lodges shall 
be regulated, in cases of removal, by the same rules as 
are prescribed in the foregoing Section for the removal 
of Chapters. 

Sect. 8. The High Priest, and other Officers, of ev- 
«ry Chapter, and the Officers of every Lodge of Mark 
Master Masons, shall be chosen annually, by ballot. 

Sect. 9. The High Priest of every Chapter has it in 
special charge, as appertaining to his office, duty and 
dignity, to see that the by-laws of his Chapter, as well 
as the General Grand Royal Arch Constitution, and 
the General Regulations of the Grand Chapter, be duly 


168 


CONSTITUTION". 


observed ; that all the other Officers of his Chapter 
perform the duties of their respective offices faithfully* 
and are examples of diligence and industry to their 
companions ; — that true and exact records be kept of 
all the proceedings of the Chapter by the Secretary ; 
that the Treasurer keep and render exact and just ac- 
counts of all the monies belonging to the Chapter ; that 
regular returns be made by the Secretary, annually^ 
to the Grand Chapter, of all admissions of candidates 
or members ; and that the annual dues to the Grand 
Chapter be regularly and punctually paid. — He has 
the special care and charge of the Warrant of his Chap- 
ter — He has the right and authority of calling his Chap- 
ter at pleasure, upon any emergency or occurrence 
which in his judgment may require their meeting ; and 
he is to fill the chair when present. It is likewise his 
duty, together with his King and Scribe, to attend 
the meetings of the Grand Chapter (when duly sum- 
moned by the Grand Secretary) either in person, or by 
proxy. 

Sect. 10 . For the preservation of secrecy and good 
harmony, and in order that due decorum may be ob- 
served while the Chapter is engaged in business, a wor- 
thy Royal Arch Mason is to be appointed from time to 
time for tyling the Chapter. His duty is fixed by cus- 
tom, and known in all regular Chapters. — He may be 
elected annually, but is to continue in office only dur- 
ing good behaviour, and is to be paid for his services. 

Sect. It. AH Lodges of Mark Master Masons are 
bound to observe the two preceding articles, as far as 
they can be applied to the government of a Lodge, 


CONSTITUTION. 


169 


Sect. 12. No Chapter shall confer the degrees of 
Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent 
Master, and Royal Arch Mason, upon any Brother, 
for a less sum than Twenty Dollars. — And no Lodge 
of Mark Master Masons shall advance a Brother to 
that degree, for a less sum than Four Dollars. 

Sect. 13. When either of the Officers or Members of 
the General Grand Chapter, or any of the State Grand 
Chapters, cannot personally attend their respective 
meetings, they shall severally have the authority to 
constitute a proxy, which proxy shall have the same 
right to a seat and vote as his constituent. 

ARTICLE IV. 

OF CONSTITUTING NEW CHAPTERS. 

Sect. 1 . [See Order of High Priesthood, from page 
1 25 to 156.] 

Sect. 2. At the institution of all Lodges of Mark 
Master Masons, under this jurisdiction, the same cere- 
monies as are prescribed in the foregoing section, are 
to be observed, as far as they will apply to that de- 
gree. 

Sect. 3. Whenever it shall be inconvenient for the 
General Grand Officers, or the Grand or Deputy Grand 
High Priests, respectively, to attend in person, to con- 
stitute a new Chapter or Lodge, and install the Offi- 
cers, they shall severally have power and authority to 
appoint some worthy High Priest, or Past High Priest, 
to perform the necessary ceremonies. 

Sect. 4. The Officers of every Chapter and Lodge 
under this jurisdiction, before they enter upon the ex 
15 


170 


CONSTITUTION. 


ercise of their respective Offices, and also the members 
of all such Chapters and Lodges, and every candidate 
upon his admission into the same, shall take the follow- 
ing obligation, viz. “ I, A. B. do promise and swear, 
that I will support and maintain the General Grand 
Royal Arch Constitution.” 

I HEREBY certify that the foregoing is a true co- 
py of the General Grand Royal Arch Constitution for 
the United States of America, as altered, amended and 
ratified, at a meeting of the General Grand Chapter, 
begun and holden at New-York, in the State of New- 
York, on the 6th day of June, A. D. 181 6. 

Witness , 


JOHN ABBOT, G. G. Secretary . 


OFFICERS 


OF THE 

General Grand lloyal Arch Chapter 

OF THE 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 

As elected at their last Septennial Assembly, in the 
City of New- York, and State of New- York, on Fri- 
day, September 10 th, A. D. 1819, and of Royal' 
Arch Masonry 2349. 

— 

M. E. and Hon. DEWITT CLINTON, of Albany, 
New- York, General Grand High Priest. 

M. E. HENRY FOWLE, Esq. of Boston, Massa- 
chusetts, Deputy General Grand High Priest. 

M. E. JOHN SNOW, Esq. of Worthington, Ohio, 
General Grand King. 

M. E. PHILIP P. ECKEL, Esq. of Baltimore, 
Maryland, General Grand Scribe. 

M. E. PETER GRINNEL, Esq. of Providence, 
Rhode-Island, General Grand Treasurer. 

M. E. JOHN ABBOT, Esq. of Westford, Massa- 
chusetts, General Grand Secretary. 

M. E. and Rev. JONATHAN NYE, of Newfane, 
Vermont, General Grand Chaplain. 

M. E. DAVID G. COWAN, Esq. of Danville; 
Kentucky,. General Grand Marshal, 


A LIST OF GRAND CHAPTERS, 

Under the jurisdiction of the General Grand Royai 
Arch Chapter of the United States of America. 

ALSO, 

A List of Subordinate Chapters, 

Holding their Charter or Warrant from under the 
same authority. 

— — 

MAINE. 

The Grand Chapter of Maine, and all subordinate 
Chapters. Their Grand Convocation is held at Port- 
land, annually. 

NEW -HAMPSHIRE. 

The Grand Chapter of New-Hampshire, and all 
subordinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocation is 
held at Concord, on the second Wednesday of July, 
annually. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

The Grand Chapter of Massachusetts, and all sub- 
ordinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocations are 
held alternately at Boston and Newburyport, on the 
first Tuesday of February, and second Tuesday of 
September, annually. 

RHODE ISLAND. 

The Grand Chapter of Rhode-Island, and all subor 
dinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocation is held at 
Providence, annually 


LIST OF GRAND CHAPTERS, &C. 


173 


CONNECTICUT. 

The Grand Chapter of Connecticut, and all subor- 
dinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocation is held 
annually, on the second Thursday following the first 
Wednesday of May, at Hartford and New-Haven al- 
ternately, beginning at New-Haven, 1820. 

VERMONT. 

The Grand Chapter of Vermont, and all subordir 
nate Chapters. Their Grand Convocations are held 
at Rutland, on the third Wednesday of June, annually. 

NEW-YORK. 

The Grand Chapter of New-York, and all subordi- 
nate Chapters. Their Grand Convocation is held at 
Albany, on the first Tuesday of February, annually. 

NEW-JERSEY. 

Washington Chapter, No. 1 , Newark. New-Bruns- 
wick Chapter, No. 2, New-Brunswick. Brearly 
Chapter, No. 3, Bridgetown, under the Grand Chapter 
of Pennsylvania. 

MARYLAND and D. C. 

The Grand Chapter of Maryland and District of 
Columbia, and all subordinate Chapters. Their Grand 
Convocation is held at Baltimore, annually. 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

The Grand Chapter of North -Carolina, and all sub- 
ordinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocations are 
held alternately at Fayetteville and Tarborough, on 
the first Monday of December, annually. 

SOUTH CAROLINA. 

The Grand Chapter of South-Carolina, and all sub,- 
ordinate Chapters. Their Grand Convocations arfe 

15* 




174 


LIST OP GRAND CHAPTERS, &C . 


held at Charleston, on the last Wednesday of Febru- 
ary annually. 

GEORGIA. 

The Grand Chapter of Georgia, and all subordinate 
Chapters. Their Grand Convocations are held at 
Louisville, on the first Monday of May, annually. 

KENTUCKY. 

The Grand Chapter of Kentucky, and all subordi- 
nate Chapters. Their Grand Convocations are held at 
Frankfort, on the first Monday of December, annually. 

OHIO. 

The Grand Chapter of Ohio, and all subordinate 
Chapters. The Grand Convocations are held at Co- 
lumbus, on Wednesday, succeeding the second Mon- 
day of December, annually. 

MICHIGAN TERRITORY. 

Monroe Chapter, No. 1, Detroit. 

TENNESSEE. 

Cumberland Chapter, No. 1, Nashvilje. 

MISSISSIPPI. 

Natchez Chapter, No. 1, Natchez. 

INDIANA. 

Madison Chapter, No. 1, Madison. 

Brockville Chapter, No. 2, Brockville. 

MISSOURI. 

Missouri Chapter, No. 1, St. Louis. 

ALABAMA. 

Chapter, No. 1, Tuscaloosa. 



MASONIC SONGS. 






ENTERED APPRENTICES’ SONG, 



176 


MASONIC SONGS. 




MASONIC SONGS. 


1 77 

His eyes cannot search 
Out the way of his march, 

Nor yet where his steps he must place on: 

When him we receive, 

He cannot perceive 

How he came to be made a Free Mason 

Then he’ll danger defy, 

And on Heaven rely 
For strength to support the occasion, 

With the blessing of pray’r 
He banishes fear, 

And undaunted is made a Free Mason. 

When he makes his demand, 

By the master’s command, 

To know if he’s fit for the station, 

Around he is brought, 

Ere he get what he sought 
From a free and an accepted Mason. 

When girded with care, 

By the help of the square, 

The emblem of truth and of reason, 

In form he is plac’d, 

While to him are rehears’d 
The mysteries of a Free Mason ; 

Then full in his sight 
Doth shine the grand light, 

To illumine the works which we trade oh ; 

And now, as his due, 

He’s cloth’d in full view 
With the badge of an accepted Mason. 

Now hark ! we enlarge 
On the duties and charge, 

Where his conduct and walk he must place ong: 
Then our rites we’ll fulfil, 

And show our good will 
To a free and an accepted Mason 


MASONIC SONGS. 


17 8 


FELLOW CRAFT S SONG'. 



^ 5 s ! 

EPF 


£ 


P 






h±ft 


’Twas then our per-fect, our per-fect laws were made, 






MASONIC SONGS. 


179 




180 


MASONIC SONGS. 


In vain mankind for shelter sought, 

In vain from place to place did roam, 

Until from Heaven, from Heaven he was taught 
To plan, to build, to fix his home. 


Illustri p hence we date our Art, 

And now in beauteous piles appear, 

We shall to endless, to endless time impart, 
How worthy and how great we are. 


Nor we less fam’d for every tie, 

By which the human thought is bound ; 

Love , truth , and friendship , and friendship socially, 
Join all our hearts and hands around. 


Our actions still by Virtue blest, 

And to our precepts ever true, 

The world admiring, admiring shall request 
To learn, and our bright paths pursue. 




MASTER’S SONG. 


BY A BROTHER. 


£ 


andante. 


IN har-mo-ny the so - cia! aid 








v*** 

Are met a - round the fount of t7‘;h/L, 


MASONIC SONGS. 


181 




1 1# — rr] 

j • 

1 1 



- -j 1 ( ^ - 

! 1 


#7^ W 




vJJ 

^ J 1 _ 


Id 

And 

on 

his heart in 

si - lence write 



The 


sa - cred Word. that binds us 


Beneath the blue and starry zone, 

Whose arch high swelling girds the pole, 
The Master on his orient throne 
Unfolds to view rbe mystic roll ; 

At once the pure fraternal soul 
Bends to the sign with sacred awe, 

And reads upon the letter’d scroll 
In words oflight, the unutter’d law . 

16 


182 


MASONIC SONGS. 




t 


Let us our hearts and hands entwine 
And form one perfect wreath of love ; 
Then kneeling at the voice divine 
That spake to mortals from above, 

Put on the meekness of the dove 
And the white robes of charity , 

And in unerring wisdom prove 
Our brethren with the single eye. 



Be there no darkling scowl of hate 
Upon the calm unruffled brow. 

But each in innocence elate 
To Virtue’s brightness only bow : 

Blest guardian of all pleasures ! Thou 
Be ever at our Master’s side, 

And mark with radiant finger how 
Thy words can be our only guide. 







By thee conducted we ascend 
The steps that lead alone to Heaven 
And where the mounting arches end 
To each the sign of worth is given ; 

Then mantled by the shades of even 
We meet beneath the unclouded, sky, 
And bind the links no power hath riven., 
In which we swear to live and die. 

Let us these favoured hours employ, 
These moments of the social night 
To sing the silver song of joy, 

And make the chain of union bright ; 

So may we even here unite 
To spend the hours in mercy given, 

Led by the tokens which invite 
Alone to happiness and Heaven. 



MASONIC SONGS 


18 S 


MASTER’S SONG. 


BY BROTHER T. S. WEBB. 


SOLO. 

MODERATO. 



SING the Ma - sons’s glo - - ry, 



. ] — 

■*: — 


Whose 


pry - - ing mind doth 


burn, 


TTtt - 

i 

$ 





a i ® 



w 

*’ * 


i 

W j 





^ — s 

L_> — > — — 


- mmmL 



Un 


- to com - plete per 


fee - - tion 
* 




184 


MASONIC SONGS. 


1 

& 










m * 

~Q 

V 

m 

* 

w 

* — 

. \ 

U — 


Not those who at our ' meet-ings 



DUET. 




tpf. z : ...” 

r ^ — *r 

- ^rr 

A— r _ J 

1 ? 1 - 

m •21 


«. g .. 

ibbiH- 


lec - tures, In glo-rious Ma - son - ry. 



/ 



MASONIC SONGS. 


185 


TRIO. CHORUS. 




T’im-prove them-selves by lec-tures, In glo-rious Ma-son-ry. 



T’im-prove them-selves by lec-tures, In glo*rious Ma-son-ry. 



The faithful, worthy brother, 
Whose heart can fee! for grief, 
Whose bosom with compassion 
Steps forth to its relief, 

16 * 


186 


MASONIC SONGS, 


Whose soul is ever ready, 

Around him to diffuse 
The principles of Masons, 

And guard them from abuse ; 
Qhorus. These are thy sons, whose pleasure, 
At every lodge, will be, 

T’improve themselves by lectures 
In glorious Masonry. 

Hail ! glorious Masonry. 



King Solomon, our patron, 


Transmitted this command — 

“ The faithful and praise-worthy 

0 -. • . 

True light must understand j 


And my descendants, also, 


Who ’re seated in the East t 


Have not fulfill’d their duty, 

Till light has reach’d the West 

6horus. 

Therefore, our highest pleasure, 

At every lodge,, should be, 
T’improve ourselves by lectures 


In glorious Masonry. 

Hail ! glorious Masonry 

The duty and the station, 

Of master in the chair, 

Obliges him to summon 


Each brother to prepare ; 


That all may be enabled, 


By slow, though sure degrees, 


To answer in rotation, 

W ith honour and with ease. 

Ghorus. 

Such are thy sons, whose pleasure, 
At every lodge, will be, 

T’improve themselves by lectures 

In glorious Masonry. 

Hail ! glorious Masonry, 


V 




MASONIC SONGS 


U7 


THE MASON’S ADIEU. 


WORDS BY BURNS. 



*3— 

~T m 7T~™ 


- ^ r~ 


i 


wa 


r“i -“H3 




i ' 



. 

~ ^-^1 J-J 



Ye bro - thers of our mys - tic tie; 




188 


MASONIC SONGS. 



Com - pan - ions of my so - - - cial joy ; 



Though 1 to for - - eign lands must hie, 


ft 



~ n 




L A _« J J 


■» H 

r i .£_*•_ J 

r 

w «J 


. i U ® . 

. i 




ft *4 ' 

A ^ ^ 

_ ff. 

* 

i 

- r A 1 r 




• a j 

ccJ 

i r :j i P ^ 






r-“[ w f “f 

. 


t=feJ= 


Pur - - - su - - ing for - - tune's slipp’ - ry ba’; 




MASONIC SONGS, 


189 



Oft have I met your social band, 

To spend a cheerful, festive night, 

Oft, honour’d with supreme command, 
Presiding o’er the sons of light : 

And by that hieroglyphic bright, 

Which none but craftsmen ever saw, 
Strong mem’ry on my heart shall write. 
Those happy scenes when far awa’. 

May freedom, harmony, and love, 
Cement you in the grand design, 
Beneath th’ Omniscient Eye above, 

The. glorious Architect divine : 

That you may keep th’ unerring line. 
Still guided by the plummet’s law, 

’Till order bright completely shine, 

Shall be my pray’r when far awa’. 


And you, farewell, whose merits claim 
Justly that highest badge to wear, 
May Heaven bless your noble name, 
To Masonry and friendship dear: 

My last request permit me then, 

"When yearly you’re assembled a’, 

One round, I ask it with a tear, 

To him, your friend, that’s far awa’. 


190 


MASONIC SONGS, 


And you, kind-hearted sisters, fair, 

J I sing- farewell to all your charms, 

Th’ impression of your pleasing air 
With rapture oft my bosom warms. 
Alas ! the social winter’s night 
No more returns while breath I draw, 
Till sisters, brothers, all unite, 

In that Grand Lodge that’s far awa’. 




ODE FOR GRAND VISITATION. 

WORDS BY R. T. PAINE, ESQ,. 




MASONIC SONGS. 


191 




192 


MASONIC SONGS 



Pt 




i) 



heav’n pre-vail. With na-titre's birth thy laws he - gan 

5 S-— j-i- 

pj\r Yi ~^ 

E i Hi — 





I 


SUL 


With na-ture’s birth thy laws be - gan 

rr/»— 


WTlStpZpr f T - T" 


1ST 




8L 


t b 

ET.1l 



heav’n pre-vail. Will) na-ture’s birth thv laws be-gan 

M 

-(% — r— — r 


g~8~f 




^p=FF» 


T ~ T , 

.Eli! 


n 


1 



MASONIC SONGS. 


193 


y — 5? 




*• 


JT- 

ft a 

Jit i 





ft r_ 



W 



J? \CJ 


w~ 

ft a 



i 






« ' ' 1 





i 







T" 1 



gj W' 

To rule on earth fra - t 

^ ~P~ 1*" -P- ~P~ ~P~ 

er - 

• “ 

nal man. 

l 

And 

1 

1 1 





i i 

1 


JL 



L 1 





«- u 


*- 


_ 






r 






To rule on earth fra - ter - nal man, 

iT7 r 


ft m 



A 

#n 

« ; 

jt r 


I® _ 


ft* 

ft 

9 

i 






i 



© 

r 


J 


ft 



1 l 




L 


L 

r 

j 

ro r 

i_ _ 

ule on earth fra - ter - 1 

P~ ft 

nal man, 

And 

^ ■ 




i 

r* 




r 

iT- 

adl 



r 

i . 1® 


ft ^ 






r 

i i 





. . 




L* 




^ i 

i ... 




■ft" 

•a 





zzi 

z 

7T 

w r 

i rrr 







f 

fk\ 

i 

rrr r r 

ft 




_ J 

m 

32 




O 

J 



still ia heav’n pre - vail. 


(i 


ft 




© ^ 

C 


r 


I r 


• 



3 

1 

ms > 


IZf 

1 L . 





_ . 1 

ft 

SB 

E 

L=q 







1 


And still in heav’n pre - vail. 


rr - wr~ 




L 

zr 

r ftR» 

« H - 






\L 

wfl\ 


ffi 

P ft. J . 





- - 

ft 


-f* 


ft 





still 

A 

* ^ o 

in heav’n pre - vail 

i - 

. 

7\i 

r 

ft * 

ft 




1 

L. 

t /• M 


1” " 

ft- 





© ! 

ft 



U _ 

=— C 





-._P -1 




ft 

_ -L. J 

c 


17 


MASONIC SONGS. 


O’er matter’s modes thy mystic sway 
Can fashion Chaos’ devious way, 

To order’s lucid maze ; 

Can rear the cloud-assaulting tow’r, 

And bid the worm, that breathes its hour, 
Its humble palace raise. 


From nascent life to being’s pride, 
The surest boon thy laws provide, 
When wayward fate beguiles j 
The tears thou shedst for human wo, 
Ih falling shine like Iris’ bow, 

And beam an arch of smiles. 


Come, Priest of Science, truth array’d, 
And with thee bring each tuneful maid, 
Thou lov’st on Shinar’s plains ; 
Revive Creation’s primal plan, 

Subdue this wilderness of man, 

Bid social virtue reign. 


MASONIC SONGS. 


1 95 


HYMN FOR CONSECRATION. 



ft — a m- 

1*~ 





ft* . 

r 

if .4 


zJ 1 



•ft ^ 

. — I . 

F 1 * 3 F4T - I 

“U 1 F ^ ! 2 1 1 

XT t* 

Heav’n a 

ind earth 

a - dor’d, 

A. A 

All h 
O 

ail, great God ! 

Ti 

A 

ft " 


r.» r 


i r 


■ I 

JL - 

P 



i i 


- 

H — 

r ’ 


- 1 

(ft— 

h 

* 

>' ' 

1 ! 

k- 

H 

hd— 1 

i 0 


:4 








_r 

— I 


A. 

a 


p, I 


i ■ 

'ft 

n -1 

p. 

r* i 

ft 


r 

F _ ' 

1 


~ I 

W i 

1 



N 


_ L 

Hoav’n and earth ! 

aT- dor’d, 

All hail, gr 

eat < 

God! 


ft ~ 




8 .... 


-1- 


r I~ 




“ 9 


_ L 

i — ri — r • ft - .1 r — r c _i. 




JfH 


■- | 







196 


MASONIC SONGS. 


tr — T ■" 


— , • 

■ 



£=» 

if s 

9 9 

r m 


w 


w 


r 

I : 






j 

i u_ 




' 

•7 

Be - 

r\ /-* 

fore thy throne we bt 

:nd, 

... 

To 

i. 

& 

J 

^ r 

9 J 9 

r . r 


®J 


in 

r 

f 

_ j. 


1 


1 

r* 

□ 

u 




Li 


i 


u 

S J 



J 

i 

r : ' ■ s s 

it# r 


-\ 


r i 

r/ . 




r ^ 1 

I&k . .. 

3| 

9 9 

H 


H 


^ . 





r~ 


Q 




1 

Be - fore 

thy t 

m 

hrone we bend, 

D 

To 



m*— 

w 

- m 

r 

rj7i 

r 


I t )• m J 

w 

Hr. 

^ 


L 

J 

1 r ^ 

""j 

j 



.IalLZ 


L 

Hi 

1 

"Ij 

1 I 


— L. 



r 

L H 

. . 1 . L 1 








MASONIC SONGS, 


197 



Heaven, thy dread dwelling place, 
Cannot contain thy Grace, 
Remember now our race, 

0 Lord our God ! 

g 


God of our fathers, hear, 

And to our cry be near, 
Jehovah, God ! 

The Heavens eternal bow, 
Forgive in mercy now 
Thy suppliants here, 0 Thou, 
Jehovah, God ! 



17 * 



196 MASONIC SONGS. 

To Thee our hearts do draw, 
On them 0 write thy law, 

Our Saviour, God! 

When in this Lodge we’re met, 
And at thine Altar set, 

O, do not us forget, 

Our Saviohr, God ! 


44*«- 


ODE FOR DEDICATION. 


BV J. H. 




m < 

4= 



f-ry 


cred 

e - - 

j — 

ter - sal 


King of 

fc* — 

— RF 

-K$Z 


-P-P 



Hi 






MASONIC SONGS. 


;i99 



/ 


tr 


t-H*— f 

•®»® 

A— i®# A 

_ • • 

i 

r 

Eb # -rii 


r. * 

i 

;*r 


1 • 

■i 

1 

courts 

a * 

- bove, Send beams 

of 

1®- 

r V m 




r m 






1 (® 


l(flJ £Z_ 

* 

t 

L Jt tf- 

J u J-J- 

i 



200 


MASONIC SONGS. 





MASONIC SONGS. 


20.1 


Lentando. 



Cres. ud lib. 



bend-ing at this sa - - - cred shrine, 




_ VT* 

iV - 








B 

1 


f 


> 1 



1 


* 




* 

1 

I 

1 


* 





* tempo. 





2Q2 


MASONIC SONGS. 


Faith ! with divine and heav’nward eye, 
Pointing to radiant realms of bliss, 
Shed here thy sweet benignity, 

And crown our works with happiness ; 
Hope ! too, with bosom void of fear, 

Still on thy steadfast anchor lean, 

0 ! shed thy balmy influence here, 

And fill our breasts with joy serene. 


And thou, fair Charity ! whose smile 
Can bid the heart forget its woe, 
Whose hand can misery’s care beguile, 
And kindness’ sweetest boon bestow, 
Here shed thy sweet soul-soothing ray ; 

Soften our hearts, thou Power divine ! 
Bid the warm gem of pity play, 

With sparkling lustre, on our shrine. 


Thou, who art thron’d midst dazzling light, 
And wrapp’d in brilliant robes of gold, 
Whose flowing locks of silv’ry white 
Thy age and honour both unfold, 

Genius of Masonry ! descend, 

And guide our steps by thy strict law ; 

O ! swiftly to our temple bend, 

And fill our breasts with solemn awe. 


MASONIC SONGS. 


203 


GLEE. 


allegro ma non presto. 



HAIL ! mys-te-rious, glo-rious sci-ence, 






i 


zi 


CRES. 




r 


H 


Wd& 




Hail ! mys - te - rious, glo - rious sci-ence, 


£ 


* 


i r- T-p 




a 


Hail ! nays - te - rious, glo - rious sci-ence. 


SB 


t fa 


% 



204 


MASONIC SONGS. 


I 


/-\ IJ. 

TT fL 

r wrv* 

£ — CL SZ“ 

£ 

-I* « — * — 

xl: » i r 


r i n 

• 

FiTi ft ' T . _ 

i i 

" 

i i i 



! _L 


! ! 

1 


Hail ! mys - te - rious, glo - rious sci - ence, 


i 


— 8= 3 

a 

5 # ... . 

• 

• 

* 


v * 

* A 

r 






. r 

£■ i 






i 


Hail ! mys - te - rious, glo - rious sci - ence, 


f— 




| 

* 

A ■ 

8 i 1 




1 






Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here, 


SL _ - ^ 


z „ 


* - 












ft 






< 

Har - m 

^ • 

o - ny 

a - 

lone reigns here, 

V- tt 

9 ■■ ■ 




O' 




m 

* _ 


a 


^ - r 

r 








1 j 






MASONIC SONGS. 


205 


t* 

Fa 


t. 


WIZM. 


II 




-# 


± 


t 


m 


Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here. 




w. 


IPZIJ 


i 


Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here. 




£ 


& 


■t 




MEZZO FOR. 



6-7 

s 


P 

• 1 












\MJ • 1 






Come let’s sing - 

» i 

ff., • 


m 




# • 

ft 



ft 



(u'R . -* 







$ • 







Come h 

. 

>t’s si 

• 1 

^ * 

o Hir 

A. 

n that 

<? 


«or 





<T 

<J /• *T . , • 








l 3 • nan 





- ‘ 


L ^ • 






rais’d us From the rug-ged path that maz’d us, 



18 



206 


MASONIC SONGS. 


PIA. 



5 


5 


To the light that 




To the light that 


P 

r — £ — s — 

r: r~ ~f — 


we re - vere. 







gfK 



£5 


o 


i 


r 


vve re - vere 

e- 


m 




* 




S~M 


E 


FOR. 



a 


t 




£ 


.Q 


I 


To the light that we re - vere. 


5 


9 


¥ 


* 


BE§ 




t 


'Jo the light that we re - vere. 


1=5 


¥=* 




i 



PIA. _ 

* ? 






* 


"7T 


Hail, mys - ter’ - ous, 


Hail, mys - ter’ - ous, glor’ - ous, sci - ence, 


MASONIC SONGS. 


207 



8 =r 


Tff- 


FOR. 


Hail, mys-ter’-ous, 


-8 


Hail, mys-ter’-ous, 






sz*rez*ii 


§ 


Hail, inys-ter’-ous, glor’-ous sci-ence, Hail, mys-ter’-ous, 

TST.TZ T ”Ti (*~l*Tl* 




8 : 


EEE 


-|fr— jO- 


:izzf 


■# 



£ 

51 


8=EP 


E 


PIA. _ ^ 

~'g~jg — p — l»~ 


-| r 

o 


-m 


E 


it7 


fi-ance, Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here. 


-1 


-a 


& 


=-f 


• — 


5 = 


1 * 


T 


fi-ance, Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here. 


£§f 


• » 


■ 8 ' 


8 : 


s — © 


r 





208 


MASONIC SONGS. 


P 


FOR. 

g ( » j»- 


I 


* 


Har - mo - ny a - lone reigns here. 


*z=s 







1 i • J 


Har - 

” 1 

mo - ny a - lone reigns here; 

r- 

Q* a 




‘ • 1 






i 

i 

9 

• | 

1 

8 


1 

r r 




• ! 

t 

3A" 1 

i 1 

| 


Q • J 





ODE TO CHARITY. 

Music, see page 178. 

OFFSPRING of Heav’n, mankind’s best friend, 
Bright Charity, inspire the lay ; 

On these celestial shores descend, 

And quit the realms of cloudless day : 

Chorus. To Thee our constant vows are paid, 

Thy praise we hymn, Angelic Maid. 


When Vulcan rages unconfin’d, 

And Neptune mourns his baffled pow'r, 
When flames aspiring with the wind, 

To Heaven’s high arch resistless tow’r : 
Chorus. ’Tis thou our hearts with pity’s glow. 
Inspir’st to feel for human w© 


I 


MASONIC SONGS. 209 

The house a dismal ruin lies, 

Where mirth late tun’d her lyre of joy ; 

And tears of anguish fill your eyes, 

Poor orphan girl, and houseless boy : — 

Chorus. But thou, sweet maid, with pity’s glow, 

Inspir’st each heart to soothe their wo 


Come then, all-bounteous as thou art, 

And hide thee from our sight no more ; 
Touch ev’ry soul, expand each heart, 
That breathes on freedom’s chosen shore : 
Chorus. Columbia’s sons with pity’s glow 
Inspire to feel for human wo. 




CHARITY. 

A HYMN. 



210 


MASONIC SONGS 



All ten - der, soft, and kind ; A friend 




to all the hu - man race, 


IT - 




b 

V 

A 


% • ft 


& ft 

ft ^ 


V 

W 




r . 

i 





* 

, — — 

i 

i 


to all the hu - man race, 




• 

~ft . * 


ft ‘ 

- ft 


1 


i 

ft • 


1 




__i ! 

1 

1 

l ! 



U — 

1 - 





To all that’s good and kind. 



To all that’s good and kind. 




MASONIC SONGS 


211 





\ i l) 



— 


I 

dr_ U 

8 * 


© 1 ^ 




! 


0 ® j 




v- 

w t 


0* 




r tt 

tends To all his lib’ - ral hand ; 


7 









r- 


m 

US 

_ 



J 


tends To all his lib' - ral hand ; 

"r“ 

r \. . i r* 

.. 9 1 

1 


(§ 

1l7* 

7 1 ! 

r i 

1 * 




, i . U 

I | 

. r .... 



i r 

__i 

1 

— 




FOR. 



His kin-dred, neigh-bors, foes, and friends, 





V 



His kin-dred, neigh-bors, foes, and friends, 








a 

hh 

t %-< r 



• 



9 w 

jl 




i 



1 

r 







* 6^ 

1 ^ 

1 








/ 


212 MASONIC SONGS. 



He aids the poor in their distress — 

He hears when they complain ; 

With tender heart delights to bless 
And lessen all their pain : 

The sick, the prisoner, poor, and blind. 
And all the sons of grief, 

In him a benefactor find, 

He loves to give relief. 


Tis love, that makes religion sweet, 
’Tis love, that makes us rise, 

With willing mind and ardent feet, 
To yonder happy skies : 

Then let us all in love abound, 

And Charity pursue ! 

Thus shall we be with glory crown’d, 
And love as angels do, 


MASONIC SONGS'* 


21-3 


MASONIC HYMN. 


First Voicf.. 




Whose wis - doni plann'd tlie grand de - sign, 


=fc=z 


3EE 


5 


Whose wis - dom plann’d the grand de - sign, 



214 


MASONIC SONGS 



(j ^ 1 

n — ff 

r 

n 

x # i - 

. | 


J81 


1 

fcA ul 4J _ 




• * 


j 

toMt ® 

w 






And gave to na - ture birth ! 


s - 

— 3T" | 


r=__q 

— Z 

ji’’ ^ — (1 

r 


1 

. ^1 

- ® 

# - ,..., - J 

IS 

1 — ■ j 

V 

l r 



/ 




MASONIC SONGS. 


215 




FOR. 


-g- 




l=S 


:g 


~**<r 

the 
^ i ^ 


r± 



And bless’d the new - born earth ; 


I 


i r 

=*=¥ 


s 


a— -< 




- 3 - # - 


And bless’d the 


E 


Hi:: 


new - born earth ; 

A 


-«1“ 


It 


-fr 

CHORUS. 

ifrif: 


$EB 




i^gza: 


V 




ifiE£ 


i 


’Till love shall cease, ’till or - der dies, 




m 




’Till love shall cease, ’till or - der dies, 




1 


f-i* 


jfcfiiCFr 


5 


I 


t 








*'S* 




tec 


1 


!# 


1 i r 


5 


:P= 


To Thee ma - son - ic praise shall rise. 





To Thee ma - son - ic praise shall rise. 

• — m — 0 


-# 


Ugli 


Repeat the last Chorus. 


£16 


MASONIC SONGS. 


O, bless this love-cemented band, 

Form’d and supported by thy hand, 

For Charity’s employ ; 

To shield the wretched from despair, 

To spread through scenes of grief and care. 
Reviving rays of joy. 

Chorus. ’Till love, he. 


The lib’ral Arts, by Thee design’d, 

To polish, comfort, aid mankind, 

We labour to improve ; 

While we adore Jehovah’s name, 

Pour on our hearts the melting flame, 
And mould our souls to love. 
€horns. ’Till love, &.c. 




FUNFRAL HYMN 

MUSIC BT IIAUDEL. 


ADAGIO. 


w 



. TTH — 

■* — 






M r 

1 1 

J L . 

; ® , i 

Un - veil thy bo - som faith - ful 

r N 

\ / i 

1 . 

i 

— T~ 

n 


li f 1 1 A 

i - 

i 




ivA* . c 

1 ! 

i ' 

J 

i J... i 

* 

O Cf 

“C75 19 

* ~ 

JS^ is 

Un - veil thy bo - som faith - ful 



^ 7.U A 






W i 

3 (8- 


r, n 1/ . r _ 



1 


c — 

— --is [ 

Z— 

1 

— 



MASONIC SONGS, 


tir 



Jr- 






< £ 

"U 


r» 


O 

3 

C« -i 

tr 



3 - < - 

















J 

thy tr 

i " t i -- m 

ust And give these sa - ci 

m 

red 


) 



- 4> — 

hT 









□ r 





a 

r 


i 

L_ : 


thy trust J 

Lnd gi 

i 1 ■ 

ve these sa - ci 

*ed 

v 

A 



£=S 

<=»• ^ 



■" r- 







f) ^ 


l 





1 


* p J 





— 

i— 




19 


MASONIC SONGS 


tfl8 




rel - ics room To slum-ber 


" Tr 

»- 

*r A 


— 11 









! l Lr 



p ~~r p :i 



\ 

f. - 

Jwj_ „ 

Xi 

— 4 — — - — 





masonic Songs. 


219 



Nor pain, nor grief, nor anxious fear, 
Invade thy bounds ; no mortal woes 
Gan reach the silent sleepers here, 
And Angels watch their soft repose. 


So Jesus slept; God’s dying Son, 

Past through the grave, and blest the bed.; 
Rest here, dear Saint, ’till from His throne 
The morning break, and pierce the shade 


Break from his throne, illustrious Morn ! 
Attend, O Earth, his sov’reign Word ! 
Restore thy trust, a glorious form, 

He must ascend to meet his Lord. 


220 MASONIC SONGS* 


MOST EXCELLENT MASTER’S ODE. 


31USIC BY A. BROWN. 





MAS ONI 8 SONGS. 


221 





2 ! 


£ 


a 


1 


•ftZftLJI 


i 


m 


m 


T 


Fe 


T 




And on the fcey stone blaz’d E - ter - nal Love. 


EF 


ima 


I 




M4 


I 




P^P~P 




5 


19 * 


MASONIt) SONGff, 


22 $ 

Heaven’s favourite, man was made 
In beauty fair, 

Crime chang’d blest Eden’s shade 
To black despair ; 

Love from the sacred Arch came gently down. 
Rais’d man from death, to an immortal crown. 


Love, then, in chorus sing ; 

Hail Love divine ! 

Masons your Cassia bring 
To deck his shrine ; 

Christians unite while Angels join in song, 

All Earth and Heaven the glorious strain prolong. 




ROYAL ARCH SONG. 


BY A COMPANION. 


MUSIC BY J. WHITAKER. 



' r 


! > 1 



r~m j® 

i ~ t n i ir- 


13 > — 







round, Where the Pon-tiff holds his seat. Now he 


MASONIC SONGS. 






spreads the vol-ume wide, Ope-ning forth its leaves 



to day, And the Mon - arch by his 



side, Ga - zes on the bright dis - play. 


Joy ! the secret vault is found ; 

Full the sunbeam falls within, 
Pointing darkly under ground, 

To the treasure we would win. 

They have brought it forth to lightj. 
And again it cheers the earth ; 

All its leaves are purely bright, 
Shining in their newest worth. 


This shall be the sacred mark 
Which shall guide us to the skies, 
Bearing, like a holy ark, 

All the hearts who love to rise 3 
This shall be the corner stone 
Which the builders threw away,. 
But was found the only one 
Fitted for the arch's stay. 


sm 


MASONIC S0&6S, 


This shall be the gavel true, 

At whose sound the crowd shall ben<£. 
Giving to the law its due ; 

This shall be the faithful friend ; 

This the token, which shall bring 
Kindness to the sick and poor, 
Hastening on, on Angel’s wing, 

To the lone and darksome door. 


This shall crown the mighty arch t 
When the temple springs on high, 
And the brethren bend their march 
Wafting incense to the sky. 

Then the solemn strain shall swell 
From the bosom and the tongue, 
And the Master’s glory tell 
In the harmony of song. 


Here the exile, o’er the waste 
Trudging homeward, shall repose } 
All his toils and dangers past, 
Here his long sojourning close. 
Entering through the sacred veils 
To the holy cell he bends ; 

Then as sinking Nature fails, 

Hope in glad fruition ends. 



MASONIC SONGS, 


225 


ROYAL ARCH SONG. 


Andante Pomposo. 







A . 1 

s 


• r 






m • 

1 



r c _. i 

vm7 ! 


! 






And pil-lar’d Strength o. 

rose ; 

f\9 

a* m, 





{ft. r 



r» 


r 

r i 



i 



i U_J — 





\ J 



* O A 

A 







F A 

W 




.» 


A. 

UAl 4A. 



1 _ _ 

-Ml. 







vM/ ® 



L 




i 


W 

hen beau - 

• 1** 1 

ty ting’d the glow - ing scene, 

m- 

7-TV 





f 

• 


ft_ 

rt. - 



i 




■ 











• r 







1 



226 


MASONIC SONGS. 



ffr 


life 


£ 


t- 




bauds 


the 


fa-bric view’d, Mys - ter’ - ous 



w 



F 




kJ* 





*i | 



k 






m 

1 

r 

U — L 

■ "•— 




XL , A . _ - . 





” 1 





• 

i *r 


. 

E 5 _. 


1 — ^ 







-2 _ 

J 

1 





■ i 


4/ 

Un-ioi 

1 stood, Ai 

ad hi 

g h t: 

p — ^ 

he Trip - pie 


t V 1 


e 





a* J 




1 


P 

_ __ r 

r 





1 

i ■ * 

• J. 

U-j 


* — 

1 

U—l 

c — fcd 



MASONIC SONGS. 


m 









e 


rr 


*«r 


•rf) — & 


+ 


T 


w • 

Un-ioa stood, That gave the mys-tic word. 


228 


MASONIC SONGS. 


Pale Envy wither’d at the sight, 

And, frowning o’er the pile, 

Call’d Murder up from realms of night- 
To blast the glorious toil. 

With rufHan outrage join’d, in wo 
They form’d the league ahhorr’d ; 

And wounded Science felt the blow, 
That crush'd the Mystic Word. 


Concealment, from sequester’d cave, 
.On sable pinions flew ; — 

And o’er the sacrilegious grave, 

Her veil impervious threw, 

The associate band, in solemn state, 
The awful loss deplor’d ; 

And Wisdom mourn’d the ruthless fate, 
That whelm’d the Mystic Word. 


At length, through Time’s expanded sphere, 
Fair Science speeds her way ; 

And warm'd by Truth's refulgence, clear 
Reflects the kindred ray. 

A second fabric's towering height, 

Proclaims the sign restor’d ; 

From whose foundation, brought to light* 

Is drawn the Mystic Word. 


To depths obscure, the favour’d Trine, 
A dreary course engage ; 

’Till, through the Arch, the ray divine 
Illumes the sacred page. 

From the wide wonders of this blaze. 
Our ancient sign’s restor’d ; — 

The Royal Arch alone display« 

The long lost Mystic- Word. 


MASONIC SONGS. 


£29 


ROYAL ARCH SONG. 


AKDANTE MODERAT'D. 


^ — 


ALMIGHTY SIRE! our heaven-ly 


eEe? 

King! 


. 1 m ^Jr 




E — 2 - ? 

n 



1 


1 


i 




— J 


-±r~ 






r 




Be - fore whose sa-cred Name we bend, Ac- 






cept the prais - es which we sing, 



And to our 



«r r 

! 

1 — 



a " 









wi ; 



<X 

* — r & j ... ^ 









i* 


hum - ble prayer at - tend ; Thou, who didst 





EZ~ 

m. 

r. t - 


:zza=3 

p 

• — 


-•u-W-J 



Per - sia’s kiDg com-tnand A pro - cla - ma - tion 



£ 


E 


¥ 


t# ex - te*dj That Is - raei’s sons might quit 



230 


MASONIC SONGS. 


r • i 


-s ft - 


M? Ti 


& - 


# rr 



I 

cri 


*«_ — y — 


Ml ... 



J 

r n 


* ^ 

L U 



_u 


the land, Their ho - ly Tem - pie to at - tend ; 

CHORUS. For. 


rr v ^ 

i. 


s a 


/jr • 





ft _ iS— J 



A. 

1* 





i.J 

:3 Ee| 


v\y • ft 

1 



! 


r 


All hail 

! grei 

A # 

at Ar-chi-tect di-vine J This u- 

• ^ A 

ni-v 

er-sal 

• 

. • (ft 

r - 





« _ft 

r 



7T • 

T_ . 




r 


-*1 

1 

r 



\ j » 

n 







1 1 

I 



• 






i 

All hail 

} grej 

at Ar-chi-teet di-vine ! T 

his u-ni-ver-sal 

ft 

f v . . • 

.A. 

ft 


] i 


A _ 



*yqrs . 

ft • 

J 




! U 

r 

V 

r 


ti * ft. 

| 


i # 

l 




*4 

I u_ 


£ 





( 

m: : 

_pq 

PL, 


Ml • 

?Tm < 



• S 3 ! 


i j 



i 

i_. 



rfo . i 

1 


1 1 


i i 

L# 

i 




= h- 

J 

1 


1 


i 

Z 1 





¥T 

frame 

is thine, 1 

ft 

[*his u-ni 

iLj 

— 4 — ■ 

- ver-sal frame is thine, 

• ft . 


ft T 


A 

ft_ 




ft 




r 


54 _ 


_J 2 






r j — 


1 


1 








1 i — 




^ 




L 1 

fra 

me 

ft. 

is thine, 1 

tt i 

[ his u-ni - ver-sal frame is 

thine, 

-V 



1 1 


_ • 

ft 1 



ft. 

« ‘ 

< 7 * 



! M_l 

L 

ft 

1 

i 




T 


1 




ft 



U J 





MASONIC SONGS. 


231 


Slow. 



That sacred place, where Three in One 
Compris’d thy comprehensive name) 
And when the bright meridian Sun 
Was seen thy glory to proclaim. 

Thy watchful eye, a length of time, 
The wond’rous circle did attend ; 

The glory and the power be thine, 
Which shall- from age to age descend. 
Chorus. AH hail, &c. 


On thy Omnipotence we rest, 

Secure of thy protection here ; 

And hope hereafter to be blest, 

When we have left this world of care. 

Grant us, great God, thy powerful aid 
To Guide us through this vale of tears ; 

For where thy goodness is display’d, 

Peace soothes the mind, and pleasure cheers/ 
Chorus. All hail, &c. 


MASONIC SONGS* 


2S® 


Inspire us with thy grace divine ; 

Thy sacred law our guide shall be ; 

To every good our hearts incline, 
From every evil keep us free. 

Our glad hosannas, Sovereign King ! 
Thy welcome here shall e’er proclaim. 
And heaven’s eternal arches ring 
With thy revealed, holy Name : 

Chorus. All hail ! great Architect divine t 
This universal frame is thine 






SELECT MASTER’S SONG. 

BY A COMPANION. 


HUNGARIAN AIR. 



THE vault arch-es o’er us and night broods a - round, 


di 


t- 


1^3 

Not 


& 




1 


ot a whis-per is heard thro’ the depth of the cave ; 


— — 1 

— 

* r 


— r 


r£=l*- 




-• — 

* 

4 

— 

mk 

r 


All hearts, in the si-lence of se - ere - cy bound, 




■ ; =r- 

• 


■ “»■ 

m 

=^m 


■ 1 — i 

• 

■ —m- 

— — * 

_fc 


Are read-ing the words, the great A^hi-tect gave : 


MASONIC SONGS. 


233 





— 

a 

1 




17 








ft 



—a 








1 

r p. 







U - ni - 

w w 

ted they lis-ten the voice of 

.a 

the 

Law , 




A- 

M ~ ~ 





- # _ 



w 




m 


P | 

- - 17 

* u 



(fr 





. 1 

r S* 



1 





_ 1 


The guide to our rea-son, the spur of the soul, 


. . 

-1 " 

A 








w 





4 




47 

J 

n 


* 







— E-S 

• ' 


i 


L — m- 





And they feel in the sounds a sweet mys-te-ry draw 



r— 




L_3_ ' 

^ (• 


_ # ■ 



P 



I s 

P— ft 


r U* 


4 

A 1 

J 

ft 

E-s 


m 

rr" 





Their hearts to the Spir-it who ut-ter'd the whole. 


Now the work is completed and all are combin’d, 
To close in the secret and deep-hidden cell 
The words which are treasur’d as light to the mind, 
Like the waters of truth in their close-cover’d well. 
Here safely secured they shall live in the rock, 
When the storm rages o’er it and levels the Wall, 
And still in the rage of the conqueror's shock, 

The arches shall neither be shaken nor fall. 

We have laid in its secret and silent retreat 
The treasures that Kings shall exult to behold ; 

And the pilgrim shall hasten with ardour to meet 
This gift, valued higher than jewels or gold : 

Ages roll on their way and no foot shall be heard 
In search of this roll to enlighten the world ; 

But a hand shall be found to recover the Word , , 

And then shall the standard o {truth be unfurled. 

20* 


234 


MASONIC SONGS, 


We are seated in silence, and nothing can find 
Its way to our distant and mystical cave ; 

And the watchman who guards not, our mandate shall bintl 
In the deeper concealment of death and the grave ; 

Be faithful and true, ever firm to your trust, 

In the lesson we give in the council of light, 

And the herald shall summon you forth from the dust. 
Above in the meeting of souls to unite. 




SELECT MASTER’S ANTHEM. 
[See Music, page 213.] 

“LET there be light,” th’ Almighty spoke; 
Refulgent streams from chaos broke, 

To illume the rising earth ! 

Well pleas’d the Great Jehovah stood ; 

The Power Supreme pronounc’d it good, 
And gave the planets birth ! 

Chorus. In choral numbers masons join, 

To bless and praise this light divine. 


Parent of light ! accept our praise ! 
Who shedd’st on us thy brightest rays, 
The light that fills the mind : 

By choice selected , lo ! we stand, 

By friendship join’d, a social band ' 
That love, that aid mankind ! 

Vhorus. In choral numbers, fee. 


MASONIC songs. 


£35 


The widow's tear, the orphan's cry, 

All wants our ready hands supply, 

As far as power is given ; 

The naked clothe, the pris'ner free, 
These are thy works, sweet Charity ! 
Reveal’d to us from Heaven. 

Qhorus. In choral numbers masons join, 

To bless and praise this light divine 




SONG. 


WRITTEN BY N. H. WRIGHT. 


Allegretto. Mezza Voce. 



— i * 

3 ^ 


i~ 

JUa 4 

T* i 

* 

** 

r a 



' W ~T~ i — 

V \ 

Aj 1 

J 

j 

r 

P 

F 


i 

w m 

& 

1 4 

i « 

• k 






® • k 

AH ! why should the heart be dt 

m. 

p 

» _ 

i 



press’d, 

n 

- m - - 



a. • 



h 

p 


J 

9 



li 

1 7 

i 

r 

L 


P . 


r 

-jft ' 



1 

A P 


1 



r 

When its i 

fond - ness i 

is treat-e 

:d 

with scorn ? 


— 1> — 


5P 

— 

i 

. n . ft ... 


i 



_ & r-* r<* 

u 



^ _ a a 


r-| r 



■ 




The couch that with ro - ses is dress’d, 


|j • f7 

■ 2 : 


h 1 

ns ” * ft* . 

% 

^ <- t 1 

f _ *•_ r r* a J _ 



_L U— £-4. £-*L 



In its soft - ness con - ceals a rude thorn. 


236 


MASONIG SONGS. 



In its soft-ness con-ceals a rude thorn, 



The couch that with ro - ses is dress’d 


-£r. 


m 


1 


si 


tZM 


m 


±£i 




In its soft-ness con-ceals a rude thorn. 


The bright eye of beauty may beam 
With a light like the meteor glare ; 

But her victim may wake from his drearu, 
And hope may be chang’d to despair. 


Like the rainbow, which shines from the cloud-, 
Her allurements awhile may deceive ; 

Till Joy is enwrapp’d in a shroud, 

And the mourner is left but to grieve. 


MASONIC SONGS. 


But Friendship has charms, which endure, 
Its birth was in regions above ; 

Tis a passion, like heaven, most pure, 

For it sprang from the fountain of love. 


Then let not the heart be depress’d 
If one treat its fondness with scorn ; 

It may find in a Brother’s warm breast 
The rose that conceals not a thorn'; 




MASONIC ODE. 


EMPIRES and kings have pass'd away 
Into oblivion’s mine ; 

And tow’ring domes have felt decay, 
Since auld lang syne. 


But Masonry, the glorious art, 
With wisdom’s ray divine ; 
Twas ever so, the Hebrew cries, 
In auld lang syne. 


Behold the occidental chair 
Proclaims the day’s decliiffe — 
Hiram of Tyre was seated there, 
In auld lang syne. 


238 


MASONIC SONGS- 


The South proclaims refreshment nigb, 
High twelve's the time to dine ; 

And beauty deck’d the southern sky, 

In auld lang syne. 


Yes, Masonry, whose temple here 
Was built by hands divine, 

Shall ever shine as bright and clear,, 
As auld lang syne. 


Then brethren, for the worthy three 4 
Let us a wreath entwine, 

The three great heads of Masonfy 
In auld lang syne. 


Remembering oft that worthy one, 
With gratitude divine, 

The Tyrian youth — the widow’s. setij 
©f auld lang syne. 


■MASONIC SONGS. 


339 


EPILOGUE, 

AS lately, brethren, from the Lodge I came, 

Warm’d with our royal order’s purest flame; 

Absorb’d in thought ; — before my ravish’d eyes, 

I saw the Genius, Masonry, arise : 

A curious hieroglyphic robe he wore, 

And in his hand the sacred volume bore : 

On one side was divine Astraea plac’d, 

And soft-eyed Charity the other grac’d ; 

Humanity, the gen’ral friend was there, 

And Pity, dropping the pathetic tear; 

There too was Order ; — there, with rosy mien, 

Blithe Temp’rance shone, and white rob'd Truth was seen. 
There, with a key suspended to his breast, 

Silence appear’d; his lips his finger prest; 

With these, soft warbling an instructive song, 

Sweet Music, gaily smiling, tripp’d along. 

Wild laughter, clam’rous noise, and mirth ill bred, 

The brood of folly, at his presence fled. 

The Genius spoke, — “ My son, observe my train, 

Which, of my order diff’reot parts explain. 

Look up — behold the bright Astr^a there, 

She will direct thee how to use the Square. 

Pity will bid thee grieve, with those who grieve, 

Whilst Charity will prompt thee to relieve; 

Will prompt thee every comfort to bestow, 

And draw the arrow from the breast of woe ; 

Humanity will lead to honour’s goal, 

Give the large thought, and form the gen’rous soul. 

Will bid thee thy fraternal love expand, 

To virtue of all faiths, — aud ev’ry land. 

Order will kindly teach her laws of peace, 

Which discard stop, and social joys increase; 


240 


MASONIC SONCiS. 


Temp’rancr instruct thee all excess t’ avoid, 

By which fair fame is lost, and health destroy’d 
Truth warn thee ne’er to use perfidious art, 

And bid thy tongue be rooted in thy heart 3 
Silence direct thee never to disclose, 

Whate’er thy brethren in thy breast repose; 

For thee shall Music strike the harmonious lyre. 
And whilst she charms the ear, morality inspire. 
These all observe ; — and let thy conduct show, 
What real blessings 1 on man bestow. 5 ’ 

He said, and disappear’d; — and Oh ! may we r 
Who wear this honour’d badge, accepted, free, 
To ev’ry grace and virtue temples raise, 

And by our useful works our Order praise. 







. t 










LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



0 019 850 601 1 


warn 





